Wearable rfid system

ABSTRACT

Apparatus and methods are provided for automatically interrogating a tagged object using radio frequency identification (RFID) when the object is moved. In one embodiment, a worker is outfitted with a wearable RFID system including an RF antenna, an RFID reader, and a holder to hold the antenna and reader during operation. The system is worn by the worker while the worker moves objects from one place to another. When the worker moves an object with an attached RFID tag, the antenna automatically begins scanning for signals from the object&#39;s RFID tag. When a RF signal is received by the antenna, the RFID reader collects the signal and transmits it to a host system which processes the signal to obtain information related to the object to which the RFID tag is attached.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The subject application is a continuation application of U.S. Ser. No.14/217,850, filed Mar. 18, 2014; which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 12/765,573, filed Apr. 22, 2010 (now U.S. Pat. No.8,674,810), which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional ApplicationSer. No. 61/171,516, filed Apr. 22, 2009 and U.S. ProvisionalApplication Ser. No. 61/324,044, filed Apr. 14, 2010, all of which arehereby incorporated by reference herein in their entirety, including anyfigures, tables, or drawings.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

Radio frequency identification (RFID) technology enables automaticidentification of unique items by using radio frequency (RF) signals. Atypical RFID system includes a tag, a reader, an antenna, and a hostsystem. The reader gathers information about an object by communicatingthrough the antenna with the tag attached to the object. The host systemthen processes the data collected by the reader to obtain informationrelated to the tagged object.

RFID systems often have reading or interrogation fields having a widerange which can present a problem of differentiating an individualproduct or a case that needs to be detected among other tagged items.RFID portals are limited in that they distinguish only the items passingthrough the portal, for example, a duck door, while reading every othertag in the field. On the other hand, in RFID systems that have shorteror more directed read ranges, such as high frequency (HF) systems orhandheld devices, the antenna has to be in very close proximity andalmost aimed at a particular tag in order to read it. Having to aim theRFID device undermines at least some of the benefits of using an RFIDsystem. Moreover, the data collected still needs to he confirmed due tothe high probability of reading an unwanted tag. These aimed devices canalso occupy the user's hands, making handling of items more difficult ortime consuming.

Current wearable RFID systems have antenna designs that severely limittheir interrogation or read ranges. The limited interrogation or readranges, sometimes only one to two inches, require that these systemsstill be “aimed” at the desired tag to ensure interrogation. This aimingcan disrupt a worker's normal handling of tagged objects and decreaseprocessing accuracy or efficiency. Initial studies show that aiming cansignificantly increase the processing time required when handling items.

Accordingly, there is a need for a method and system that allowsinterrogation of RFID tagged items when the items are handledindividually while among other items, such as during typical warehouseor retail store activity of preparing an order, breaking up a pallet ora case, or associating cases to pallets, without disrupting the handlingprocess. Specifically, there is a need for a wearable RFID system withan increased interrogation and read range that does not lose the soughtafter RFID tag among others within the interrogation field.

BRIEF SUMMARY

In one aspect of an embodiment of the subject invention, a wearable RFIDsystem is provided, including an antenna, an RFID reader, a host system,and a holder for holding at least the antenna and the reader. Inspecific embodiments, the wearable RFID system also incorporates atransmitting antenna or interrogator in the holder, for production of aninterrogation RF signal that creates a response RF signal upon incidenceon a RFID tag or transponder. The RFID reader can drive the transmittingantenna or a separate transmitter can be provided. In a specificembodiment, one antenna acts as both the transmitting antenna and thereceiving antenna. In alternative embodiments, the transmitting antennacan be separate from the holder, and/or not attached to the wearer ofthe holder. Similarly, the host system can be located on the holder,worn elsewhere on the user, or located remotely from the user, in whichcase the RFID reader communicates remotely with the host system. In anembodiment, the RFID reader incorporates at least part of the hostsystem. The antenna receives RF signals from one or more RFID tags. Thereader collects the signals from the antenna and the host system processthese signals to retrieve information about the RFID tag.

In another aspect of an embodiment of the subject invention, a method ofusing the system to identify objects with attached RFID tags is alsoprovided in which the holder is worn by a worker while the worker movesobjects from one place to another. When the holder picks up or moves anobject with an attached RFID tag, the RFID reader scans signals from theobject's RFID tag received by the antenna. The scanning can beginautomatically or can be triggered by an input from, for example, theuser and/or a sensor. When a RF signal is received by the antenna, theRFID reader collects the signal and transmits it to the host system asdescribed above. The host system then processes the signal to obtaininformation about the RFID tag. In a specific embodiment, no additionalor specific action by the worker is required to initiate interrogationand scanning. Therefore, the worker is able to handle the objectsnormally without any extraneous movement or time. In fact, in someembodiments of the invention, the worker may not even know that theholder the worker is wearing incorporates an RFID system.

Embodiments of the subject invention offer significant improvement overprior wearable RFID systems in that they do not require that the REantenna be pointed directly at each item's tag as items are processed.Instead, according to embodiments of the subject invention an RF antennais positioned so that during normal handling of tagged items the antennais generally oriented toward the handled item. An increased read rangeand other enhancements facilitate the reading of the tag without“aiming” or other extraneous motion by the worker. In embodiments of thesubject invention, the system is further enhanced by the addition ofsensors that indicate when interrogation should be initiated for aparticular item or group of items, thus increasing read accuracy andsaving battery life. In further embodiments, the RFID systemincorporates other identification apparatus, such as a barcode scanner,to corroborate the radio frequency identification of handled items.

It should be noted that this Brief Summary is provided to generallyintroduce the reader to one or more select concepts described below inthe Detailed Disclosure in a simplified form. This Summary is notintended to identify key and/or required features of the claimed subjectmatter. The invention is defined by the claims below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a functional block diagram of a system in accordance withan embodiment of the subject invention.

FIGS. 2a and 2b show fractal patch antennas in accordance with anembodiment of the subject invention.

FIGS. 3a and 3b show the radiation pattern of an antenna in accordancewith an embodiment of the subject invention.

FIG. 4 shows a conformal antenna designed to conform to a human forearmin accordance with an embodiment of the subject invention.

FIGS. 5a and 5b show a sleeve holder with an incorporated reader andflexible dipole antenna in accordance with an embodiment of the subjectinvention.

FIG. 6 shows a sleeve holder with an incorporated reader andsemi-flexible dipole antenna in accordance with an embodiment of thesubject invention.

FIG. 7 shows a rigid dipole antenna attached to a reader in accordancewith an embodiment of the subject invention.

FIGS. 8a and 8b show a sleeve holder in accordance with an embodiment ofthe subject invention.

FIG. 9 shows the sleeve holder of FIG. 8a with a reader and rigidantenna positioned thereon on in accordance with an embodiment of thesubject invention.

FIG. 10a shows the sleeve holder of FIG. 8a positioned on a humanforearm in accordance with an embodiment of the subject invention.

FIG. 10b shows the sleeve holder of FIG. 10a with an antenna and readerpositioned thereon on in accordance with an embodiment of the subjectinvention.

FIG. 11 shows a vest holder in accordance with an embodiment of thesubject invention.

FIG. 12 shows a vest and an apparatus for storing said vest inaccordance with an embodiment of the subject invention.

FIG. 13 depicts a method of using an embodiment of the subjectinvention.

FIG. 14 depicts a method of using a further embodiment of the subjectinvention with a wearable host system and read triggering sensor.

FIG. 15 shows a flow diagram of a method in accordance with anembodiment of the subject invention.

FIGS. 16a and 16b show a wearable RFID reader configured for voicecommand and power output adjustment in accordance with an embodiment ofthe subject invention.

DETAILED DISCLOSURE

Embodiments of the present invention include improved systems andmethods for radio frequency identification (RFID) using a wearable RFIDantenna. In one embodiment of the subject invention, a wearable RFIDsystem is provided, including an antenna, an RFID reader, a host system,and a holder for holding at least the antenna and the reader. Inspecific embodiments, the wearable RFID system also incorporates atransmitting antenna or interrogator in the holder, for production of aninterrogation RF signal that creates a response RF signal upon incidenceon a RFID tag or transponder. The RFID reader or host system can drivethe transmitting antenna or a separate transmitter can be provided. In aspecific embodiment, one antenna acts as both the transmitting antennaand the receiving antenna. In alternative embodiments, the transmittingantenna can be separate from the holder, and/or not attached to thewearer of the holder. Similarly, the host system can be located on theholder, worn elsewhere on the user, or located remotely from the user,in which case the RFID reader communicates remotely with the hostsystem. The antenna receives RF signals from one or more RFID tags. Thereader collects the signals from the antenna and the host system processthese signals to retrieve information about the RFID tag.

A method of using the system to identify objects with attached RFID tagsis also provided in which the holder is worn by a worker while theworker moves objects from one place to another. When the worker picksup, drops off, or otherwise moves an object with an attached RFID tag,the RFID reader scans signals from the object's RFID tag received by theantenna. The scanning can begin automatically or can be triggered by aninput from, for example, the user and/or a sensor. When a RF signal isreceived by the antenna, the RFID reader collects the signal andtransmits it to the host system as described above. The host system thenprocesses the signal to obtain information about the RFID tag. In aspecific embodiment, no additional or specific action by the worker isrequired to initiate interrogation and scanning. Therefore the worker isable to handle the objects normally without any extraneous movement ortime. In fact, in some embodiments of the invention, the worker may noteven know that the holder the worker is wearing incorporates an RFIDsystem.

In an embodiment of the subject invention, a power output level or othersettings for an RFID system are set or adjusted based on input from auser and/or a sensor. In an embodiment, the user selects the poweroutput level or other settings via an input button or other directcontrol. In an embodiment, the user selects an application or use-casescenario based on the intended use of the RFID system (for example anapplication can be selected from a menu of possible choices) andappropriate settings are set or adjusted based on the selected use. Inan embodiment, the RFID system recognizes a specific application oruse-case scenario based on a movement pattern of an object or the user.In an embodiment, the system sets or adjusts the power output level orother settings for the recognized application. In an embodiment, noadditional or specific action by the worker is required to initiate suchadjustment. Therefore, the worker is able to initiate and change taskswithout any extraneous movement or time.

Embodiments of the subject invention offer significant improvement overprior wearable RFID systems in that they do not require that the RFantenna be pointed directly at each item's tag as items are processed.Instead, according to embodiments of the subject invention an RF antennais positioned so that during normal handling of tagged items the antennais generally oriented toward the handled item. An increased read rangeand other enhancements facilitate the reading of the tag without“aiming” or other extraneous motion by the worker. In embodiments of thesubject invention, the system is further enhanced by the addition ofsensors that indicate when interrogation should be initiated for aparticular item or group of items, thus increasing read accuracy andsaving battery life. In further embodiments, the RFID systemincorporates other identification apparatus, such as a barcode scanner,to corroborate the radio frequency identification of handled items.

In an embodiment of the subject invention, a plurality of antennas isused with an RFID system. In an embodiment, a first antenna of theplurality is a transmitting antenna capable of interrogating RFID tags,and a second antenna of the plurality is a receiving antenna capable ofreceiving RF signals. In an embodiment, the first antenna can alsooperate as a receiving antenna. In an embodiment, the second antenna canalso operate as a transmitting antenna. In an embodiment both antennasare mono-static used for both transmitting and receiving. In anembodiment, the second antenna is removeably connected to the RFIDsystem such that the system can be used with or without the secondantenna. In an embodiment, the second antenna is positioned on a user.In an embodiment, the second antenna is positioned on the user via aharness. In an embodiment, both the first and the second antenna arepositioned on the user via the harness. In an embodiment, the secondantenna is a handheld antenna. In an embodiment, the second antenna is adirectional antenna. In an embodiment, the directional antenna can beoriented by the user to interrogate and/or receive signals from at leastone specific RFID tag.

In an embodiment, the first and second antennas are each positioned orotherwise configured to interrogate and/or receive RF signals fromdifferent RFID tags. Thus, the first antenna is configured tointerrogate and/or receive RF signals from a first type of RFID tags,and the second antenna is configured to interrogate and/or receive RFsignals from a second type of RFID tags. For example, the first antennacan be configured to interrogate and/or receive RF signals from objectRFID tags attached to objects handled by the user, while the secondantenna can be configured to interrogate and/or receive RF signals fromlocation RFID tags positioned at locations passed by the user, or viceversa. In a particular use-case scenario, the first antenna can bepositioned on the inside of the user's arm to interrogate and/or receiveRF signals from object RFID tags attached to objects handled by theuser, while the second antenna can be positioned on the outside of theuser's arm to interrogate and/or receive RF signals from location RFIDtags passed by the user. Thus, an object carried by the user can beassociated with the location of the user by the RFID system. In anembodiment, as discussed above, information from two or more RF signalscan be associated when they are received within a certain spatial ortemporal proximity. In an embodiment, a read association module such asthe read association module is used to associate information receivedfrom one or more signals, as discussed below. In alternativeembodiments, the first and second antennas can be positioned in othermanners appropriate to their use. In embodiments, other settings canalso be adjusted based on the use of each antenna.

In an embodiment, a single antenna is used to receive RF signals fromdifferent RFID tags. In an embodiment, the single antenna is driven indifferent ways to receive RF signals from different RFID tags. Forexample, the orientation of the antenna can be changed, the power outputlevel used to drive the antenna can be changed, or the wavelength usedcan be changed, among other changes. In an embodiment, the read field ofthe single antenna is different for different types of RFID tags. Forexample, the read field can be larger for battery-assisted RFID tagsthan for fully-passive RFID tags.

Throughout the description of the present invention, several acronymsand shorthand notations are used to aid the understanding of certainconcepts pertaining to the associated system and services. Theseacronyms and shorthand notations are solely intended for the purpose ofproviding an easy methodology of communicating the ideas expressedherein and are in no way meant to limit the scope of the presentinvention. The following is a list of these acronyms:

-   -   RF Radio Frequency    -   LF Low Frequency    -   HF High Frequency    -   UHF Ultra High Frequency    -   RFID Radio Frequency Identification

The subject matter of the present invention is described withspecificity to meet statutory requirements. But this description is notintended to limit the scope of this patent. Rather, the inventors havecontemplated that the claimed subject matter might also be embodied inother ways, to include different steps or combinations of steps similarto those described in this document, in conjunction with other presentor future technologies. Moreover, although the term “step” may be usedherein to connote different elements of methods employed, the termshould not be interpreted as implying any particular order among orbetween various steps herein disclosed unless and except when the orderof individual steps is explicitly described. Further, the presentinvention is described in detail below with reference to the attacheddrawing figures, which are incorporated in their entirety by referenceherein.

Aspects of the invention may be described in the general context ofcomputer-executable instructions, such as program modules, beingexecuted by a computer. Generally, program modules include routines,programs, objects, components, data structures, etc., that performparticular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. Moreover,those skilled in the art will appreciate that the invention may bepracticed with a variety of computer-system configurations, includingmultiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable-consumerelectronics, minicomputers, mainframe computers, and the like. Anynumber of computer-systems and computer networks are acceptable for usewith the present invention.

Specific hardware devices, programming languages, components, processes,protocols, and numerous details including operating environments and thelike are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the presentinvention. In other instances, structures, devices, and processes areshown in block-diagram form, rather than in detail, to avoid obscuringthe present invention. But an ordinary-skilled artisan would understandthat the present invention may be practiced without these specificdetails. Computer systems, servers, work stations, and other machinesmay be connected to one another across a communication medium including,for example, a network or networks.

As one skilled in the art will appreciate, embodiments of the presentinvention may be embodied as, among other things: a method, system, orcomputer-program product. Accordingly, the embodiments may take the formof a hardware embodiment, a software embodiment, or an embodimentcombining software and hardware. In an embodiment, the present inventiontakes the form of a computer-program product that includescomputer-useable instructions embodied on one or more computer-readablemedia.

Computer-readable media include both volatile and nonvolatile media,removable and nonremovable media, and contemplate media readable by adatabase, a switch, and various other network devices. By way ofexample, and not limitation, computer-readable media comprise mediaimplemented in any method or technology for storing information.Examples of stored information include computer-useable instructions,data structures, program modules, and other data representations. Mediaexamples include, but are not limited to, information-delivery media,RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM,digital versatile discs (DVD), holographic media or other optical discstorage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage, andother magnetic storage devices. These technologies can store datamomentarily, temporarily, or permanently. In an embodiment,non-transitory media are used.

The invention may be practiced in distributed-computing environmentswhere tasks are performed by remote-processing devices that are linkedthrough a communications network. In a distributed-computingenvironment, program modules may be located in both local and remotecomputer-storage media including memory storage devices. Thecomputer-useable instructions form an interface to allow a computer toreact according to a source of input. The instructions cooperate withother code segments to initiate a variety of tasks in response to datareceived in conjunction with the source of the received data.

The present invention may be practiced in a network environment such asa communications network. Such networks are widely used to connectvarious types of network elements, such as routers, servers, gateways,and so forth. Further, the invention may be practiced in a multi-networkenvironment having various, connected public and/or private networks.

Communication between network elements may be wireless or wireline(wired). As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art,communication networks may take several different forms and may useseveral different communication protocols. And the present invention isnot limited by the forms and communication protocols described herein.

A typical RFID system includes a tag, a reader, an antenna, and a hostsystem. The reader gathers information about an object by communicatingthrough the antenna with the tag attached to the object and the hostsystem processes the data collected by the reader. The host system canbe housed on the reader or the reader can communicate information to thehost system for additional processing.

RFID tags include a memory which typically stores data related to theobject. The data stored varies in different applications. For example,in simple applications the data stored may be a single bit indicatingthe existence of the object. In other applications, a serial or otheridentification number related to the tag or a tagged object may bestored. In further applications, environmental data may be stored on thetag such as the lowest temperature, highest humidity, or vibrations towhich the object was exposed. The data stored on the tag can be read andsometimes written to via an RF antenna. Embodiments of the subjectinvention can work with any number RFID tags that are well known in theart.

Typically, an interrogation RF signal is transmitted to begincommunication with an RFID tag. The interrogation RF signal causes thetag to become “excited” when the interrogation RF signal is incident onthe tag and the interrogation signal's electromagnetic field, magneticfield, or both excites the tag. The tag then produces a response RFsignal that encodes data stored on the tag. The response RF signal maybe received by the same RF antenna that transmitted the interrogation RFsignal or by a different receiving RF antenna. Regardless, an RFIDreader collects the response RF signal from the receiving antenna andtransmits the signal to a host system that decodes the signal to obtaininformation about the tag. Different software can then be utilized bythe host system to operate different applications. For example, RFID canbe used to facilitate identification, authentication, sorting,product/case put away, tracking, inventory management, supply chainmanagement, pricing, quality control (via processing, for example,temperature or humidity data on the tag), and acceptance/declining ofthe received or shipped products, among other applications. The examplesprovided herein are merely illustrative. Other applications of RFID arewell known in the art and can be used with the subject invention.

The RFID system of the subject invention can be designed to be worn onvarious parts of the body. For example, the system can be incorporatedinto a hat, vest, jacket, footwear, or other article of clothingcommonly worn by persons handling tagged items. In other embodiments,the system can be incorporated into tools or devices worn or used byworkers when handling tagged items, such as a glove, barcode scanner, orweight-belt. In further embodiments the system is incorporated into itsown harness or holder which may be worn on various parts of the body,such as the appendages, the torso, or other body parts. To accommodateworkers of different sizes, such a holder can feature adjustments usedto resize the holder or may be produced in a number of standard sizes(e.g., XS, S, M, L, and XL) or both.

In a particular embodiment, a sleeve holder is provided that can bepositioned on an arm or leg of a worker handling tagged items. Thesleeve holder can be attached and reattached and sized for differentworkers. The sleeve holder may be worn for example on the forearm asshown in FIG. 5b . The antenna and reader may be incorporated into thesleeve holder itself or they may be removeably attached to the sleeveholder using hook and loop fasteners, synch straps, buckles, or otherfastening or harness mechanisms known in the art.

In a further embodiment, a harness is positioned on the body of theworker and the antenna is positioned on the harness such that duringnormal handling of tagged items by the worker the antenna is generallyoriented toward the item as it is picked up, held, moved, set down, orotherwise handled by the worker. For example, a sleeve holder may beworn on the forearm and the antenna placed on the inside portion of theforearm such that it is generally oriented toward a box as it is pickedup and carried by a worker. See FIG. 13. In another embodiment, theharness is incorporated into a pair of shoes and the antenna ispositioned on the instep of the shoe such that it faces up toward a boxcarried by the worker. In yet another embodiment, a holder isincorporated into the front of a vest and the antenna is positioned onthe portion of the vest covering the stomach or chest such that it facesoutward toward a box carried by the worker. See FIG. 11. In additionalembodiments, the holder can be incorporated into a necklace, necktie,shoulder harness, or other article worn about the neck of a worker. Inother embodiments, the antenna can be positioned so that it generallyoriented toward objects passed by a user. For example, the antenna canbe placed on the outside portion of the forearm such that it isgenerally oriented toward an RFID tag on a doorframe when the doorframeis passed by the user. In another embodiment, the antenna can be placedon the shoulder or head of the user so that it is generally orientedtoward a plurality of RFID tags positioned on a ceiling or otheroverhead surface.

Because the holder is generally meant to be worn by a worker while theworker is moving, the antenna and reader can be powered (or partiallypowered) by the kinetic energy produced by the movement of the worker.Methods of harnessing kinetic energy produced by a human body andtransforming such kinetic energy into electrical energy suitable forpowering electronic devices are well known in the art.

FIG. 1 shows a functional block diagram of a system 101 in accordancewith an embodiment of the subject invention. This figure merely depictsone example of such a system. Embodiments of the invention may containadditional elements not shown here, may not include all of the elementshere presented, or the elements shown may be differently arranged.

In one embodiment of the subject invention, an RFID reader 103 receivesa response signal form a receiving antenna 105 and merely transmits thatsignal on to a host system 107 for further processing. The host system107 can be housed with the reader 103 or the signal or informationrelated to the signal can be communicated by the reader 103 to the hostsystem 107 for further processing.

In another embodiment of the subject invention, the RFID reader 103 isresponsible for driving transmitting and receiving antennas. Thetransmitting antenna can be used to send interrogation signals as iswell known in the art. In some embodiments, the transmitting andreceiving antennas are one in the same. In FIG. 1, both antennas arerepresented by the antenna 105. In a further embodiment, the antenna 105may be driven by the reader 103 to write information to an RFID tag. Inan embodiment, the host system itself or a component of the host system,such as an antenna driving module or an RFID reader, can be used todrive the antennas.

In another embodiment, a plurality of antennas can be used. In anembodiment, a first antenna of the plurality is a transmitting antenna,and a second antenna of the plurality is a receiving antenna. In anembodiment, the first antenna can also operate as a receiving antenna.In an embodiment, the second antenna can also operate as a transmittingantenna. In an embodiment both antennas are mono-static used for bothtransmitting and receiving. In an embodiment, the second antenna isremoveably connected to the system 101 such that the system can be usedwith or without the second antenna. In an embodiment, the first andsecond antennas are each positioned or otherwise configured tointerrogate and/or receive RF signals from different RFID tags. Thus,the first antenna is configured to interrogate and/or receive RF signalsfrom a first type of RFID tags, and the second antenna is configured tointerrogate and/or receive RF signals from a second type of RFID tags.For example, in an embodiment, the first antenna can be configured tointerrogate and/or receive RF signals from object RFID tags attached toobjects handled by the user, while the second antenna can be configuredto interrogate and/or receive RF signals from location RFID tagspositioned at locations passed by the user, or vice versa. In anotherembodiment, the second antenna can be configured to interrogate and/orreceive RF signals from container RFID tags positioned on containersused to hold such objects.

In yet another embodiment of the subject invention, the host system 107decodes response RF signals to obtain information about RFID tags, theobjects or locations they are attached to or both. For example, the hostsystem 107 may decode a response RF signal from an MID tag to obtaindata stored on the tag such as a serial number corresponding to aproduct that the tag is attached to, temperature or other environmentaldata stored on the tag, or other data useful in various RFIDapplications.

In a further embodiment of the subject invention, the host system 107also encodes RF signals used to write data to RFID tags. The RFID reader103 can then drive the antenna 105 to write such signals to RFID tags.For example, the RFID reader may store environmental information on atag such as the highest temperature to which the tagged object has beenexposed. This information can later be retrieved from the tag asdescribed above and known in the art. For example, the system 101 can beused to read a Gen2 temperature tag and, according to a shelf lifemodel, the host system 107 can then output a message to a user that anassociated product is good or bad. In an embodiment, the host systemitself or a component of the host system, such as an antenna drivingmodule or an RFID reader, can be used to drive the antennas.

In further embodiments, the host system 107 performs more complexinformation processing. The host system 107 may comprise a database orother memory for storing data related to tagged items or processingparameters. For example, a serial number obtained from a tag may belooked up in a database to obtain the price of a tagged product or otherstored information about the product. Or information from the tag may bestored in the host system's memory for further use. As will be obviousto one skilled in the art, such a memory may be incorporated into thehost system 107 or may be accessible via a network.

In an embodiment, the host system 107 includes a read association module117. In an embodiment, the read association module 117 facilitatesassociating information decoded from one or more response signalsreceived by the RFID reader 103 with other available information. Forexample, in an embodiment, the read association module associates aproduct serial number or other information obtained from an RFID tagwith information about the product stored in a database as discussedabove. In an embodiment, the module associates information received froma response signal with a particular time or location. In an embodiment,the response signal is associated with the time the signal was received.In an embodiment, the response signal is associated with the location orthe RFID reader 103 or antenna 105 at the time the signal was received.In an embodiment, the position of the RFID reader 103 or antenna istriangulated from wireless transmissions of the RFID reader 103 orantenna 105. In an embodiment, information from two or more responsesignals is associated. In an embodiment, tag IDs and/or otherinformation encoded in the response signals are used to associate thesignals. In an embodiment, information from two or more response signalsreceived within a certain distance of each other or within a certainarea is associated. The location of a response signal can be determinedin various ways as described above. In an embodiment, the order in whichtwo or more response signals are received is used to associate one ormore signals with a time, location, each other, or other availableinformation. In an embodiment, the rate at which response signals arereceived from at least one tag is used to associate the at least on tagwith a time, location, each other, or other available information. In anembodiment, information from two or more response signals receivedwithin a certain time of each other or within a certain time period areassociated. For example, as further discussed below, information from anobject RFID tag attached to an object can be associated with informationfrom a location RFID tag attached to a doorway when an object responsesignal is received from the object RFID tag in close temporal proximityto a location response signal received from the location RFID tag. Thus,information regarding the object can be associated with informationregarding the location. Similarly, information about an object can beassociated with information received from a container RFID tag attachedto a container near the object. In an embodiment, the object isassociated with a container when the object is positioned on, in, ornear the container. In an embodiment, the object is associated with acontainer when the object is taken from the container. In an embodiment,read order, read rate, and/or other information are used todifferentiate signals received from a plurality of tags in the readfield, before an association is made. As is known in the art, thefunctions of the read association module 117 can be distributed invarious ways. For example, all or part of the read association modulecan be stored and/or executed on the host system 107, the RFID reader103, or another device in communication with the RFID reader 103.

In a particular embodiment, the host system 107 incorporates an outputmodule 109 to present information to one or more users of the system101. The output module 109 can present such information using variousoutput devices such as visual displays, audio speakers, printers, orother output devices known in the art. This information may be utilizedto confirm correct processing or further direct processing of the taggeditems, among other applications. In further embodiments, the host systemalso incorporates an input module 111 which can utilize various inputdevices known in the art to facilitate interaction with stored data,writing information to RFID tags, and/or other applications.

As described above, in various embodiments of the subject invention, atleast a portion of the host system 107 is incorporated into the RFIDreader 103 itself or the RFID reader 103 communicates with the hostsystem via known wireless (e.g., Bluetooth) or wired (e.g., a coaxial orEthernet cable) communication methods. In a particular embodiment of theinvention, Bluetooth is used to communicate information between an RFIDreader and a host system and to minimize booting time. In such anembodiment, the Bluetooth unit stays on while the system is in use. Inaddition to Bluetooth, other communication methods can be used such asCSM/CPRS, Satellite, WIFI, Zigbee, or other wired or wirelesscommunication methods. The examples provided herein are merelyillustrative. Other communication methods are well known in the art andcan be used with the subject invention.

The host system 107 can be incorporated or removeably attached to one ofthe holders described herein or can be incorporated or removeablyattached to a separate holder worn on the same or a different worker.The host system 107 can also be incorporated into a personal or othercomputer system such as a desktop or a laptop computer or server.

In a further embodiment of the subject invention, the RFID system 101 isused for item identification and the RFID reader or host systemincorporates other identification apparatus, such as a barcode scanner,to corroborate the radio frequency identification of handled items.Collected information may be presented and manipulated on a host systemas described above. For example, in an embodiment of the invention, auser can correct inconsistent information received from a plurality ofsources via the host system. Identification apparatus can beincorporated into the body of the reader device or host system, orcommunicate through a wired or wireless connection. For example, abarcode scanner may be connected to the reader via a Universal SerialBus (USB) Port. Other peripheral devices may also be connected to theRFID reader or host system for operation, processing, storage, orpresentation. For example, other input and output devices such asprinters, speakers, microphones, keyboards, buttons, touch screens,among other devices, can be incorporated. Input and output modules 111and 109 may facilitate communication with such devices. Other storagemedia or devices may also be incorporated. A battery may be incorporatedinto the RFID reader, an antenna, or other part of the RFID system toprovide power to the RFID system. Alternatively, a battery or otherpower source may be connected to the RFID system using known methods.The examples provided herein are merely illustrative. Other peripheraldevices are well known in the art and can be used with the subjectinvention.

In an embodiment of the subject invention, a sensor 113 is provided thatsenses a change in a physical environment and communicates an eventmessage to the RFID reader 103. In an embodiment, the sensor 113 insteadcommunicates the event message to the host system 107 which can furtherprocess the sensor input and/or communicate the event message to theRFID reader 103. In an embodiment, the sensor 113 transmits informationto an event recognition module 115, which processes the sensorinformation to recognize an event and generate and pass the eventmessage.

In an embodiment, the sensor 113 or event recognition module 115 caninitiate transmission of the event message to the RFID reader 103, hostsystem 107, or other system component on recognizing an event. In anembodiment, the RFID reader 103, host system 107, or other systemcomponent can periodically poll the sensor 113 or event recognitionmodule 115 for the occurrence of one or more events. Regardless of thechosen implementation, the purpose of the sensor 113 and/or eventrecognition module 115 is to recognize events and provide correspondingevent messages, which can be responses to polling requests, at the nextavailable opportunity (e.g., in response to the next polling request).

The sensor 113 can be any number of sensors known in the art and maysense any number of changes, such as a change in temperature, humidity,lighting, acidity, proximity of an object to a part of the RFID system,presence or movement of an object, issuance of a command including butnot limited to the pressing of a button or a voice command. The examplesprovided herein are merely illustrative. Other sensors are well known inthe art and can be used with the subject invention. Various events canbe recognized, such as a temperature change, a lighting change, amongother changes. In an embodiment, the event recognition module 115 canstore information needed to recognize one or more events in a memory,such as time or location information. In an embodiment, an event isrecognized when a change does not occur within a certain time period.For example, in an embodiment, the event recognition module 115generates a no-read event when no RF signals are received by the RFIDreader 103 within a certain period of time.

In an embodiment, the change comprises movement of an RFID reader, user,or other object. Various methods are known in the art for detectingmotion. For example, gyroscopes or accelerometers can be used to detectmotion. In an embodiment, a gyroscope is used to detect a change inorientation of an attached object. In an embodiment, one or moregyroscopes are used to detect a change in orientation in a particulardirection. In an embodiment, one or more gyroscopes are used to detect achange in orientation of a particular magnitude. In an embodiment, anaccelerometer is used to detect acceleration of an attached object. Inan embodiment, the accelerometer detects acceleration in a particulardirection. In an embodiment, the accelerometer detects acceleration of aparticular magnitude. In an embodiment, a plurality of suchaccelerometers is used. In an embodiment, a sensor can be used to detecta change in proximity of two or more objects, and a movement is impliedfrom the change in proximity. In an embodiment, a light sensor is usedto detect a change in lighting, and a movement is implied from thechange in lighting. In an embodiment, one or more images of the physicalenvironment are taken and the images are processed to detect a movement.In an embodiment, optical flow registration or other known techniquesare used to detect, track, or measure movement depicted in a pluralityof images of the physical environment. In an embodiment, a strain gaugecan be used to detect displacement or deformation of an object. Othermethods known in the art for detecting, tracking, or measuring motioncan also be used with the subject invention. In an embodiment, thefunctions of detecting, tracking, or measuring movement can be housed inthe event recognition module 115.

In a particular embodiment, the change comprises the recognition of aparticular motion pattern exhibited by the RFID reader, the user, orother object. Various methods are known in the art for recognizingmotion patterns associated with a particular movement, such as a humanbody movement. In an embodiment of the invention, an indicative movementpattern is determined during a training period wherein the movementpattern is indicated by a human being. In an embodiment, the movementpattern is repeatedly indicated. In a further embodiment, the indicativemovement pattern is predetermined and loaded into the sensing device orevent recognition module. In an embodiment, a separate movement patternis trained for each user. In an embodiment, the determined movementpattern is recognized based on one or more detected movements of theobject.

In an embodiment, a movement pattern is defined as a plurality ofaccelerations or other movements. In an embodiment, a constant movementin a particular direction for a particular distance or time isconsidered. Such movements can be detected, tracked, and/or measuredusing various methods, as described above. In an embodiment, the orderor sequence of one or more of the plurality of movements is significantfor determining and/or recognizing the movement pattern. In anembodiment, the direction or magnitude of one or more movements issignificant. In an embodiment, the absolute or relative timing of one ormore movements is significant.

In an embodiment, an indicative movement pattern is determined bystoring the timing, order, magnitude, direction, and/or othermeasurements of the plurality of movements. For example, a wave could bestored as an acceleration of a hand in a first direction, a constantmovement of the hand for a first distance or time, an acceleration of ahand in a second direction opposite to the first direction, followed bya constant movement of the hand for a second distance or time. In anembodiment, the wave could also incorporate an angular acceleration ofthe hand, i.e., where the hand is twisted at the wrist as part of thewave. In an embodiment, the movement pattern is performed by a subject.In a further embodiment, the subject or another person can indicate thebeginning or ending of the movement pattern to the system. In anembodiment, the indicative movement pattern is repeated in order to honethe pattern. For example, on repetition an acceptable range for themagnitudes of distance or time can be determined, or a degree oftolerance for the change in direction can be determined, i.e., thesecond direction of the wave may not be precisely opposed to the firstdirection. In an embodiment, the indicative movement pattern can beperformed by a plurality of subjects. In an embodiment, a movementpattern can be stored for each subject and/or repetition. In anembodiment, the movement pattern of each subject and/or repetition canbe contrasted to determine acceptable ranges or tolerances. In anembodiment, the movement pattern of each subject and/or repetition canbe compared to eliminate spurious movements.

In an embodiment, various classification techniques can be useddetermine or refine the movement pattern. In an embodiment, a supervisedclassification technique is used wherein a machine learning techniquelearns a function for classification from training data, which includesmeasurements upon which to base the classification (inputs) paired withtheir corresponding classes (outputs). In an embodiment, variousmeasurements of the plurality of movements are the inputs and one ormore movement patterns to be recognized are the outputs or classes.Various learning techniques can be used, such as a naive Bayes'classifier and a random forests classifier. The naive Bayes' classifieris based on Bayes' theorem and makes strong independence assumptionsabout the inputs. A naïve Bayes classifier also assumes that all theinputs are equally powerful in their ability to distinguish betweenclasses. In an embodiment, random forests can produce an accurateclassifier because of its ability to estimate the importance ofvariables in the classification (i.e., all inputs are not thought to beequally important as in the naive Bayes' classifier). As furtherdiscussed below, a plurality of detected movements can then beclassified as one or more recognized movement patterns when there isgood agreement between measurements of the plurality of detectedmovements and the one or more recognized movement patterns.

In an embodiment, a movement pattern is recognized by comparing orcorrelating the timing, order, magnitude, direction, and/or othermeasurements of a plurality of detected movements to the stored movementpattern. In an embodiment, a classification technique is used asdiscussed above. In an embodiment, the stored movement pattern of asubject is compared to movement of the subject in order to recognize themovement pattern. In an embodiment, the stored movement pattern of asubject is compared to movement of a different subject. In anembodiment, a movement pattern developed from movements of a pluralityof subjects is compared to movement of a subject in the plurality. In anembodiment, the movement pattern developed from the movements of theplurality of subjects is compared to movement of a subject outside theplurality. In an embodiment, non-linear statistical data modelingalgorithms, such as Artificial Neural Networks, are used for movementpattern determination or recognition.

In an embodiment, the functions of determining or recognizing indicativemovement patterns can be housed in the event recognition module 115. Inan embodiment, the event recognition module 115 is or includes amovement pattern recognition module (not shown). The event recognitionmodule 115 and/or the movement pattern recognition module can be housedin the host system 107, in the sensor 113, in the RFID reader 103, or onanother network accessible device, as discussed above.

On receiving the event message, the RFID reader 103 or host system 107may take various actions. In one embodiment of the invention, onreceiving a triggering message the RFID reader 103 drives the antenna105 to produce an interrogation signal. In an embodiment, the hostsystem itself or a component of the host system, such as an antennadriving module or an RFID reader, can be used to drive the antennas. Ina further embodiment of the invention, if no tag is read (i.e., noresponse signal is received) during a particular time period the RFIDreader 103 switches to a “standby” mode in which no interrogation orscanning is attempted. When the triggering message is received, the RFIDreader 103 exits the standby mode and begins scanning again for responsesignals. These embodiments, may decrease power consumption and extendbattery runtime. In yet another embodiment of the invention, onreceiving the event message the RFID reader 103 or other systemcomponent drives the antenna 105 to produce a write RF signal thatwrites data to one or more writable RFID tags. This embodiment has manyuseful applications. For example, the reader may rewrite the tags of theperishable items indicating their predicted shelf life with theinformation gathered from temperature tracking RFID tags. In anotherembodiment, the sensor 113 may be configured to produce an event messagewhen the room temperature reaches a dangerous level. The RFID reader 103can then produce a write RF signal to indicate this information onwritable RFID tags attached to perishable items. The examples providedherein are merely illustrative. Other applications will be obvious tothose trained in the art. In an embodiment, on receiving a particularevent message, the system 101 sets or adjusts one more system settingsas further discussed below.

In another embodiment of the invention, a read indicator is providedthat indicates when an RFID tag is read by the system 101. The indicatorcan take various forms including but not limited to a light, a flashinglight, a sound, vibration, or other haptic effect, a visual display,among other indications. Such an indicator provides a quick confirmationfor the user that the reader 103 is working and reading a tag. Theindicator can also be used as a warning signal when it is coupled with asensor. For example if a sensor, such as a proximity sensor, detects apackage in front of the user and no tag is being read, a flashing lightor sound can alert the user to the apparent problem.

In yet another embodiment of the invention, the RFID system 101differentiates a desired tag or tags from other tags within the readrange of a receiving antenna. For example, in a particular timeframe, anRFID reader may receive response RF signals from a plurality of RF tags.The RFID system 101 selects a subset of these tags as being of interestto the particular application and processes the corresponding RF signalsaccordingly. The other RF signals can then be processed differently,stored for later processing, or discarded entirely. Various selectionalgorithms may be used. Selection can be performed based on variousinformation, including but not limited to, tag type, tag IDs or otherinformation encoded on or related to the tags; signal wavelength, signalstrength, and other signal properties; read order, read rate, read time,and read location; among other available information. Selection criteriacan be combined to refine selection results. In an embodiment, thesignal strength of the response RF signals are used to suggest which ofthe tags are closest to the receiving antenna. In an embodiment, one ormore tags having the highest read rates are selected. In an embodiment,the host system 107 ignores response RF signals until it receives an RFsignal comprising a tag ID matching the ID of tag attached to thepackage being handled. Also, movement pattern recognition algorithmsdiscussed above can also be used in tag differentiation by determiningpackage handling movements. In a further embodiment, a sensor isincorporated as discussed above to narrow the timeframe in which RFsignals are read. This embodiment not only saves energy, but also helpsdecrease the number of response RF signals the system mustdifferentiate. The examples provided herein are merely illustrative.Furthermore, the data from these embodiments, such as the RF signalstrength or reader output can be analyzed mathematically to carry outthe differentiation between tags using machine learning techniques withvarious complexities ranging from simple Wiener filtering to morecomplex neural network approach. Other selection algorithms may be usedwith the subject invention.

Embodiments of the subject invention may use one or more antennas orantenna arrays for transmitting and receiving magnetic orelectromagnetic signals. Such antennas can be incorporated into the samehousing as an RFID reader such as a rigid or flexible compartment.Antennas can also be connected to an RFID reader using a coaxial cableor other connection technology known in the art. Elastic straps may beused to hide a cable from the user and for safety and esthetic concerns.Instead of elastic straps, adjustable or plastic straps may be used. TheRFID reader or other system component may drive the antennas to produceor receive magnetic or electromagnetic signals at any number offrequencies including but not limited to LF, HF, UHF, and Microwavefrequencies. The signals sent or received may be encoded using anynumber of known modulation methods including but not limited to AM, SSB,FM, PM, SM, OOK, FSK, ASK, PSK, QAM, MSK, CPM, PPM, TCM, OFDM, FHSS, andDSSS. The examples provided herein are merely illustrative. Other signalpassing and encoding methods may be used with the subject invention.

Embodiments of the subject invention may utilize a variety of antennadesigns, including but not limited to patch and dipole antenna designs.The antennas can be flexible, semi-flexible, or rigid depending on thedielectric constant and thickness of the material employed. In oneembodiment, a semi-flexible antenna is used which can be bent and thenretains its shape. For example, FIG. 4 depicts a conformal antenna 412designed to conform to a human forearm in accordance with an embodimentof the subject invention. FIG. 5a includes a flexible dipole antenna 503incorporated into a sleeve holder 501 in accordance with an embodimentof the subject invention. FIG. 6 shows semi-flexible dipole antennacomprising a rigid portion 616 bound to a flexible substrate 615 used toattach the antenna to a sleeve holder 617. FIG. 7 shows a rigid dipoleantenna with a rigid housing 723 attached to an RFID reader 719 inaccordance with another embodiment of the subject invention.

The antennas can be linear polarized or circularly polarized. In oneembodiment, linear polarization is used to provide a more directionaland powerful signal when the orientation of the tag to be read can bepredicted.

Fractal Patch Antennas are known in the art, see I. Kim, T. Yoo, J.Yook, H. Park, “The Koch Island Fractal Patch Antenna” IEEE, Antennasand Propagation Society International Symposium, 2001 volume 2 pg:736-739, July 2001, and can be employed in embodiments of the subjectinvention. Fractal microstrip patch antennas use the space fillingproperties of fractal geometries on existing microstrip square patchantennas. By using fractal patterns, lower resonant frequencies can beachieved using the same patch size. This allows the same resonantfrequency to be produced using a smaller antenna footprint, thusenabling an antenna that can be workably positioned on various parts ofthe human body. For example, here are measurements, in millimeters (mm),for various microstrip patch antennas produced which all resonate at 915MHz:

IF = 0.2 Area (mm²) Size (%) IF = 0.25 Area (mm²) Size (%) Square patch76 × 76 5776 100.00 76 × 76 5776 100.00 Fractal 1st iteration 63 × 633969 68.72 57.8 × 57.8 3340.84 57.84 Fractal 2nd iteration 60.6 × 60.63672.36 63.58 51 × 51 2601 45.03 Fractal 3rd iteration 60 × 60 360062.33 50 × 50 2500 43.28As you can see, the area of a patch antenna can be reduced to 43% of itssquare patch size with the third iteration using iteration factor: 0.25.Here are some additional examples of resonant frequencies and sizesachieved using antenna materials with different dielectric constants(εr=4.6 or εr=10.2) and square and fractal patch designs:

Er: 4.6 h: 1.57 Resonant Frequency (MHz) 915 MHZ Resonant Patch l/w (mm)p/l: 76.27 IF: 02 IF: 0.25 IF: 02 IF: 0.25 Square patch 915 915 76.2776.27 Fractal 1^(st) iteration 762 682 63 57.8 Fractal 2nd iteration 726635 60.6 51 Fractal 3rd iteration 721 620 60 50

Er: 10.2 h: 1.49 Resonant Frequency (MHz) 915 MHZ Resonant Patch l/w(mm) p/l: 51.35 IF: 02 IF: 0.25 IF: 02 IF: 0.25 Square patch 915 91551.35 51.35 Fractal 1^(st) iteration 719 618 42.5 37.5 Fractal 2nditeration 695 580 40.5 34 Fractal 3rd iteration 687 566 39.9 33As you can see, the resonant frequency of the antenna reduces withhigher iteration and iteration factors.

In a particular embodiment of the invention, a fractal microstrip patchantenna is constructed using an AD1000 substrate with a dielectricconstant of 10.2. A 1st iteration fractal pattern using iteration factor0.20 is cut into a 42.5×42.5 mm patch with a thickness of 1.49 mmproducing a resonate frequency of 915 MHZ. In addition to the radiatingpatch, the antenna includes a ground plate of size 80×80 mm and anantenna connector. In this embodiment, a 50 ohm coaxial cable is used toconnect the antenna to an RFID reader, but other connection technologymay be used as discussed above.

FIG. 2a shows a first iteration fractal patch antenna with a 0.2iteration factor 207, while FIG. 2b shows a second iteration fractalpatch antenna with a 0.2 iteration factor 257 in accordance withparticular embodiments of the subject invention. FIGS. 2a and 2b alsoshow antenna connector or feeding points 211 and 261 for connecting theantennas to RFID readers. Although the examples given here are based ona square patch, designs based on other shapes may be used with thesubject invention.

Using different antenna designs and power outputs, different read andinterrogation ranges and patterns can be produced. Different read andinterrogation ranges will be optimal for different applications of thesubject invention. For example, a close proximity range would exciteand/or read signals from fewer RFID tags. This range would thereforefacilitate finding a single tag or a small subset of tags closer to anantenna. This range might be useful for reading tags during handling ofindividually tagged objects, among other applications. As discussedabove, various selection algorithms can be combined with a closeproximity range or can be separately employed to select a subset of tagswhich are important for the particular application. A mid proximityrange would be useful for applications where tagged objects are furtherapart or where it is advantageous to read a larger subset of taggedobjects at one time. This range might be useful for sorting of tagged orbuilding orders, among other applications. A large proximity range wouldbe useful for still other applications. This range would be useful wheretag selection is performed after tags are excited or read or where alltags in a large area arc to be read at one time. This range might beuseful for inventory control or inventory of an entire warehouse oftagged objects, among other applications. The ranges may overlap. Theranges can also be optimized depending on the band and wavelength of theradio frequency used or the type of RFID tag to be read. In someapplications, a close proximity range may range from zero to about 40 to60 centimeters, a mid proximity range may range from zero to about 6meters, while a large proximity range may range from zero to about 30meters. Ranges over 30 meters may be useful for some applications. Arange up to 100 meters may also be useful. In an embodiment, as furtherdiscussed below, the power output or other configuration settings of anRFID system can be set or adjusted based on the intended application ofthe system.

In a particular embodiment, a 20-30 centimeter range is achieved using afractal micro patch antenna at 20 dBm output power. FIGS. 3a and 3b showan example of the radiation pattern produced by such an antenna. FIG. 3ais a polar coordinate graph and FIG. 3b is a three-dimensional graph ofthe radiation pattern. As shown, this fractal patch antenna produces amain lope normal to the patch surface and side lopes at the back andsides. In embodiments of the subject invention, an array of antennas isused to create a main lope having an angle to the normal of theradiating patch. This design may be used to direct the radiation patterntoward an object held by a user wearing the antenna. With greater outputpower and different antenna designs a read range of up to 3-4 meters canbe produced. The examples provided herein are merely illustrative. Otherantenna designs may be used with the subject invention.

Various holders or harnesses may be used with embodiments of the subjectinvention in order to position antennas, RFID readers, or host systemson human users. In one embodiment, an antenna, RFID reader, and hostsystem are all positioned on a single holder. In another embodiment,these elements are positioned on different holders or locations andcommunicate through wired or wireless connections. In a furtherembodiment of the invention, these elements may be removeably attachedto a holder so that they can be removed or repositioned. In otherembodiments, the holders may incorporate adjustments used to resize theholder or the holders may be produced in a number of standard sizes(e.g., XS, S, M, L, and XL) or both.

RFID readers and/or host systems can be positioned on a holder orholders so that any user interface and display is visible and accessibleto the user. In embodiments of the invention, this is achieved bypositioning the element(s) at various locations along the outside of thearm, including but not limited to the upper arm, forearm, wrist, or backof the hand, so that the display and interface are visible andaccessible with the other hand when the arm is held up and across thetorso. See, for example, FIG. 14 in which a host system 1407 ispositioned on the upper arm of a user. In further embodiments, thedisplay and interface may be turned or tilted on the holder to increasevisibility and accessibility. The holder may be designed to be worn oneither arm or left- and right-handed holders may be produced so that auser can wear the holder on the user's non-dominate arm while accessingcontrols with the user's dominate hand. Other ergonomic designs arepossible and will be obvious to those skilled in the art.

Antennas can be positioned on a holder or holders so that antennaradiation is generally directed away from a user and towards an RFID tagor tagged object in close proximity to the user. In an embodiment, anantenna is positioned on a holder so that antenna radiation is generallydirected towards a tagged object directly in front of a user wearing theholder. In another embodiment, an antenna is positioned on a holder sothat antenna radiation is generally directed towards a tagged objectheld by a user wearing the holder. In embodiments, the antenna is placedon the inside of the forearm or hand of the user so that antennaradiation is generally directed toward an item held by the user. Forexample, FIGS. 5a and 5b show a sleeve 501 which incorporates a flexibleantenna 503 and an RFID reader 505. As shown in FIG. 5b , the sleeve 501can be positioned on a human forearm such that the antenna portion 503is disposed on the inside of the forearm. In FIG. 13, a wearable RFIDsystem 1301 is positioned on the forearm of a user carrying a package1303 with an attached RFID tag 1302. As discussed further below, thewearable RFID system 1301 may take many forms including, but not limitedto, the sleeve 501 with incorporated antenna 503 and RFID reader 505. Asshown in FIG. 13, in this arrangement the radiation generated by theantenna 503 is generally directed toward the package 1303 when thepackage 1303 is held by the user.

As shown, the RFID reader 505 comprises two status lights 507 and 509.These status lights can be used to present various pieces of informationto a user. For example, the status lights may indicate that the RFIDreader 505 is: on; receiving RF signals; sending RF signals; in standbymode; linked to a Bluetooth device; communicating with a Bluetoothdevice; low on batteries; among other pieces of information. In aparticular embodiment, the status light 507 blinks when a response RFsignal is received by the RFID reader 505. In a further embodiment, thestatus light 509 blinks when a response RF signal is not received duringa particular timeframe, such as within about one second of when such anRF signal was expected. Additional status indicators or other outputdevices may be used with the subject invention.

The RFID reader 505 also comprises a control 511. The control 511 maycomprise a button, switch, knob, or other control device known in theart. The control may be used for various purposes. For example, thecontrol may function as: an on/off switch; an interrogate now switch(directing the reader 505 to drive the antenna 503 to produce aninterrogation RF signal); a scan now switch (directing the reader 505 todrive the antenna 503 to scan for a response RF signal); a standbyswitch (directing the reader 505 to enter or exit a standby mode); amongother functions. Additional controls or other input devices may be usedwith the subject invention.

In embodiments of the subject invention, the holder may comprise hookand loop fasteners, elastic cords, synch straps, or other fasteningmechanisms known in the art. Such fasteners may be used to removeablyattach the holder to a wearer, to attach other system components (suchas an antenna, RFID reader, or host system) to the holder, or both. Theembodiment of FIG. 5a includes hook and loop fasteners attached to theunderside of end flap 521 and the top side of end flap 523. These hookand loop fasteners mesh to removeably attach the sleeve 501 to a weareras shown in FIG. 5 b.

FIG. 7 shows an RFID system 701 in accordance with an embodiment of thesubject invention. This figure merely depicts one example of such asystem. Embodiments of the invention may contain additional elements notshown here or may not include all of the elements here presented. Thoseelements presented here may be differently arranged in alternativeembodiments of the invention.

As shown, the RFID system 701 comprises a rigid dipole antenna 723attached to an RFID reader 719. The RFID reader 719 includes a powerbutton 718. This button 718 can be used to power up the reader unit 719to initiate scanning for RF signals. The same button can be used to turnoff the reader unit 719 when it is not in use. In a further embodiment,the RFID reader 719 comprises additional controls and/or input devicessuch as those the controls and input devices discussed above in relationto the RFID reader 505.

Also shown are a tag reading light indicator 720 and a Bluetooth lightindicator 721. These status indicators each provide importantinformation to users of the RFID system 701. The tag reading lightindicator 720 indicates the receipt of an RF signal by the RFID reader719. The light 720 may flash or otherwise change to indicate suchreceipt. The Bluetooth light indicator 721 can indicate the transmissionof a Bluetooth message between the RFID reader 719 and a host system(not shown). The RFID reader 719 can transmit a received RF signal to ahost system via a Bluetooth message. A host system can use a Bluetoothmessage to transmit a write RF signal to the RFID reader 719. The RFIDreader 719 or other system component can then drive antenna 723 oranother antenna to transmit the write RF signal to a writable RFID tag(not shown). Bluetooth, or another communication protocol, may be usedto pass other types of messages between the RFID reader 719 and one ormore host systems. The light 721 may flash or otherwise change toindicate that the RFID reader 719 is sending or receiving such messages.For example, the light 721 may use one color to indicate the receivingof a message and another color to indicate sending of such a message. Ina further embodiment, different colors are used to indicate differenttypes of messages. In a further embodiment, the RFID reader 719comprises additional status indicators such as those indicatorsdiscussed above in relation to status lights 507 and 509.

Also shown is battery port 724. In this embodiment, a battery slidesinto battery port 724 that provides power to the reader unit 719 andantenna unit 723. Such a battery can be removed to be charged andreplaced. In an alternative embodiment, the battery is charged withinthe reader unit. An ac adapter port may also be provided to providepower to the system 701. In a further embodiment, the battery may becharged by kinetic energy generated by a wearer of such a system. Asdiscussed above, other peripheral devices may be connected to and usedwith such a system.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7, a coaxial cable 722 is used tooperably connect the reader unit 719 to the antenna unit 723. RF signalscan thereby be passed between the reader unit 719 and the antenna 723,in either direction. Various other connection technologies are known inthe art and can be used with the subject invention to communicatesignals between the reader unit and the antenna. Here, the reader unit719 and the antenna unit 723 are also physically connected by connectionstraps 725. The connection straps 725 are composed of a flexiblematerial to allow the distance between the reader unit 719 and antennaunit 723 to change somewhat. As discussed further below, thisflexibility allows the system 701, which is composed of rigidcomponents, to be worn and accommodate movement by users of varioussizes. In a further embodiment, the connection straps 725 also hide thecoaxial cable 722 or other wires connecting the reader unit 719 with theantenna unit 723.

FIGS. 8a and 8b show a sleeve holder 801 for holding an RFID system suchas the system 701. These figures merely depict one example of such asleeve holder. Embodiments of the invention may contain additionalelements not shown here or may not include all of the elements herepresented. Those elements presented here may be differently arranged inalternative embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 8a presents a top view of the holder 801. The holder 801 contains aportion for holding an RFID reader 838, a portion for holding an antenna839, and a portion for securing the holder to a wearer 840. In furtherembodiments, the holder includes portions for holding additional systemcomponents, such as a separate host system. Various fastening meansknown in the art may be used to secure components to the holder 801 orthe holder 801 to a wearer. For example, hook and loop fasteners, synchstraps, or other fastening or harness mechanisms may be employed forthis purpose. The holding portions may be rigid to support a rigidcomponent. For example, the portion shown for holding an RFID reader 838is rigid. The holding portions may also contain placement straps such asthose shown in the portion for holding an antenna 839. Such straps maybe comprised of hook and loop fasteners and the antenna (or othercomponent) may be placed at various locations along their length toaccommodate different sized components, wearers, or preferredarrangements. The portion for securing the holder to a wearer 840 mayalso comprise fasteners arranged along a length of material so that theholder can be adjusted to accommodate wearers of various sizes. Forexample, the portion 840 may contain different synch strap slots or hookand loop fasteners where the holder 801 may be secured to a wearer.Fasteners may also be positioned on the underside of the holder 801 (notshown) to marry with the fasteners discussed.

FIG. 8b presents an exploded view of the holder 801 showing variouscomponents of the holder 801. The top layer of the sleeve 841 iscomposed of breathable material. In an embodiment of the invention,highly breathable and water resistant mesh fabric, such as treated Nylonor GORTEX, is used to repel moisture and ensure the comfort of thewearer. An intermediate layer 842 is composed of an RF shieldingmaterial. The RF shielding material is positioned to reflect or absorbantenna radiation. Various shielding materials are available and wellknown in the art. In an embodiment of the invention, a fabric is usedwhich incorporates conductive strands in a grid pattern. The resultingfabric is flexible and washable. Shielding is achieved by the conductivestrands which reflect electromagnetic waves. The reflection produceddepends on the dielectric constant of the strand material and the gapsbetween each strand. In a particular embodiment, the conductive strandsare incorporated into a cotton base fabric which absorbs sweat and iscomfortable to wear next to the skin. In an embodiment, RF shieldingmaterial is positioned on the holder between the body of the user andthe antenna. In an embodiment, RF shielding material is positioned onother parts of the user. For example, if the antenna is positionedinside the forearm of the user, RF shielding material may be placed onother body parts where RF exposure is likely to occur depending on theantenna radiation pattern, such as on the legs, pelvis, and torso of theuser. In a further embodiment, the user wears coveralls whichincorporate RF shielding material. In an embodiment, the user wears anundergarment (i.e., a garment worn under other clothes or a holder)which incorporates an RF shielding material. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 8b , a bottom layer is incorporated into the holder 801 constructedfrom a breathable and absorbent material such as cotton or various formsof polyester known in the art.

In an additional embodiment of the invention, insulation is alsoincorporated into the holder or otherwise positioned between the userand the antenna. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, insulation isincorporated into the holder creating a thickened portion 851 where theantenna will be attached. Such insulation reduces antenna interferencefrom the wearer's body. In a particular embodiment of the invention, a10 mm distance between the human body and the antenna is achieved.

In yet another embodiment, the holder is wholly disposable orincorporates a disposable layer for comfort and convenience. In yetanother embodiment, all fabric, straps, accessories, and fastenersincorporated into the holder are washable. In another embodiment, theholder is made of rigid materials such as plastics, among other suitablematerials.

FIG. 9 shows the sleeve holder of FIG. 8 with the RFID system of FIG. 7positioned thereon. The composition is referred to as a wearable RFIDsystem 901. The composition 901 presented is merely an example. Thesleeve holder 801 may accommodate various other RFID systems; and theRFID system 701 may be held by various other holders.

FIG. 10a shows the sleeve holder of FIG. 8 positioned on a humanforearm. As discussed above, various means may be used to secure such aholder to wearer. Here, hook and loop fasteners secure overlappingportions of the sleeve holder 801 at position 1047.

FIG. 10b shows the sleeve holder of FIG. 8 with the RFID system of FIG.7 positioned thereon. As shown, the reader unit 719 is positioned on thetop of the forearm so that the various controls and status indicatorscan be easily viewed and accessed by the wearer. The antenna unit 723 ispositioned on the inside of the forearm so that radiation from theantenna will be generally directed toward an object held by the wearer.As discussed above, the connection straps 725, which physically connectthe reader unit 719 and the antenna unit 723, are composed of a flexiblematerial to accommodate forearms of different sizes. Rubber, elastomers,or other materials known in the art may be suitable for this purpose.

In another embodiment, the antenna is placed on a holder incorporatedinto footwear or legwear so that antenna radiation may be directed uptowards a tagged object held by the user or out towards tagged objectsin front of the user. In yet another embodiment, the antenna ispositioned on the torso of the user. For example, the antenna can bepositioned on a holder incorporated into a shirt, jacket, vest, or otherclothing item, or made part of a harness worn around the chest, neck, orshoulders. Other designs are possible and will be obvious to thoseskilled in the art. The examples provided herein are merelyillustrative. Other holder designs can be used with the subjectinvention.

In another particular embodiment of the invention, depicted in FIG. 11,a vest holder 1101 is provided that is adapted to hold antennas and anRFID reader. As shown, the RFID reader is held in a pocket 1128. Theantennas are incorporated into front panels 1129. Front panels 1129 arepositioned so that radiation from the antennas will generally bedirected toward an object positioned directly in front of the wearer ofthe vest. The antennas and reader may be permanently sewn into the vest1101 or they may be removeably attached to the vest 1101. The vest 1101also comprises status lights 1126 and 1127. As discussed above, suchstatus indicators can indicate various useful pieces of information tousers. A battery compartment 1130 is also included at the bottom of thevest 1101. Batteries may be removed from the compartment 1130 to becharged. In an alternative embodiment, batteries may be charged by thekinetic energy produced by the movement of the wearer of the vest 1101.The various components of the vest 1101 may be connected by wires sewninto the vest 1101 or by various other connection means known in theart.

FIG. 12 shows a vest embodiment of a wearable RFID system 1201 and avest storage apparatus 1251 in accordance with an embodiment of thesubject invention. The vest 1201 incorporates an RFID system (notshown). In addition, the vest 1201 includes a docking unit 1205 which isused to removeably attach the vest 1201 to the storage apparatus 1251via a hook 1253. When the docking unit 1205 is in contact with the hook1253, power is provided to and data is downloaded from the RFID system1201 via a network and power cable 1254. The data is downloaded to ahost system on the network for further processing as discussed above.The docking unit 1205 also includes a system display and controller1206. The system display and controller 1206 may comprise various statusindicators and controls as discussed above. In a particular embodiment,the system display and controller 1206 indicates the power level of thevest. In a further embodiment, the system display and controller 1206indicates the progress of data download is that the vest 1201 is notprematurely removed from the hook 1253. The docking unit 1205 alsoincludes a name tag 1207 which may bear the name or initials of a workerassigned to wear the vest 1201. In embodiments, the worker must unlockthe vest 1201 to remove it from the hook 1253 using a fingerprint reader1252. The lock may also prevent removal of the vest 1201 from the hook1253 while charging and/or data transfer is incomplete.

FIG. 13 depicts a method of using an RFID system according to anembodiment of the subject invention. In this figure, a worker wears awearable RFID system 1301 while moving a box 1303 with an attached RFIDtag 1302. The wearable RFID system 1301 may be one of the systemsdiscussed above or a similar system. While the worker is moving the box1303, the wearable RFID system receives signals from the RFID tag 1302in order to obtain information about the box 1303. As discussed above,the signal information may then be communicated to a host system for usewith various applications including, for example, sorting, tracking, andinventory control, among other applications. In a particular embodimentof the invention, the RFID system 1301 automatically begins scanning forsignals from the RFID tag 1302 when the worker picks up or moves the box1303. In an embodiment, the scanning occurs automatically, without therequirement of any additional intentional movement by users includingany speech or other commends from the wearer or other users of thesystem 1301. In embodiments of the subject invention, this automation isaccomplished through detection of a particular movement of an objectand/or the recognition of a particular movement pattern of the object.As discussed above, various techniques can be used to detect, track,and/or measure movement of an object; and/or to determine and/orrecognize a movement pattern. In an embodiment, detected motion of asystem component 1301, the wearer, or the box 1303 is compared orcorrelated to a known movement pattern associated with picking up ormoving a box such as the box 1303. The function of comparing thedetected movement to the known movement pattern can be housed in amovement pattern recognition module. When the detected movement matchesthe pattern, scanning is initiated by the RFID system 1301.

FIG. 14 depicts a method of using an RFID system according to a furtherembodiment of the subject invention. In this Figure, a worker againwears a wearable RFID system 1401 while moving a box 1303 with anattached RFID tag 1302. But here the RFID system 1401 includes a readtriggering sensor 1403. As discussed, the read triggering sensor 1403may be triggered by various events including the motion of the workerwhen pickup up the box 1303. Regardless, when the sensor 1403 istriggered it sends a triggering message to the RFID system 1401 whichthen initiates scanning for RF signals. In a further embodiment, whenthe RFID system receives the triggering message it also produces aninterrogating RF signal 1405. As shown, because of the placement of theRFID system 1401 and its incorporated antenna the interrogation signal1405 is directed toward the box 1303 when the worker moves to pickup thebox 1303. In a further embodiment of the invention, the RFID system 1401employs a selection algorithm to differentiate signals received from theRFID tag 1302 attached to the box 1303 from signals produced by theother boxes in the vicinity of the box 1303. The worker shown here isalso wearing a wearable host system 1407 on a separate holder. In thisexample, the RFID system 1401 communicates signal information to thehost system 1407 for display, interaction, and/or further processing bythe host system 1407.

FIG. 15 shows a flow diagram of a method for reading RFID tags 1501 inaccordance with an embodiment of the subject invention. According to themethod 1501, an RFID system, such as one of the systems discussed aboveor a similar system, is first powered on at step 1503. At step 1505, auser mode selection is determined. The mode selection can bepreconfigured and saved in configuration input file 1519, or the usermay input the selection through a control or input device attached tothe RFID system. If manual triggering mode is selected, the methodproceeds to step 1509. At step 1509 the MID system waits for a usercommand to begin scanning for RF signals. The user command can takevarious forms such as; the pushing of a button on a RFID reader or themanipulation of a similar control; a voice command or other triggeringevent detected by a sensor attached to the RFID reader; a message fromanother input device attached to the RFID reader or a host system; oranother command mechanism known in the art. Once the command isreceived, the method proceeds to step 1515. If instead automatictriggering is indicated at step 1505, the method proceeds to step 1511.At step 1511, the RFID system utilizes sensors to determine whenscanning for RF signals should commence. Various techniques may beemployed to determine the appropriate time for scanning to commence. Inone embodiment, a sensor is employed that recognizes the proximity of atagged object in the vicinity of the RFID system. In another embodiment,detection of a particular movement of an object and/or the recognitionof a particular movement pattern of an object is used, as discussedabove. In an embodiment, when the wearer's movements match a movementpattern indicative of handling a tagged object, the pattern isrecognized and the method proceeds to step 1515.

At step 1515, the RFID system scans for RF signals from tagged objects.In a further embodiment, the RFID system first transmits aninterrogating RF signal which generates response signals from taggedobjects. If more than one RF signal is received, a selection algorithmmay be employed to select an appropriate RF signal for furtherprocessing.

At step 1517, a data processing mode configuration is determined. Themode configuration can be preconfigured and saved in configuration inputfile 1519, or the user may input the configuration through a control orinput device attached to the RFID system. If internal processing mode isconfigured, the method proceeds to step 1525. Otherwise, informationrelating to an RF signal read in step 1515 is transmitted to an externalhost for further processing at step 1523, and the method returns to step1505.

At step 1525, information relating to an RF signal read in step 1515 ispassed to an internal processing function. At step 1527, informationrelated to the RF signal is presented to a user. Such information mayinclude a serial number or other information stored on an RFID tag whichsent the signal. Such information may be presented to the user via avideo display or other output device as discussed above. At step 1529,some of the information, such as the serial number of the RFID tag isstored in a database. Once the processing function is complete at step1531, the method returns to step 1505.

Embodiments of the subject invention can be used for variousapplications and/or use-case scenarios. For example, embodiments of thesubject invention can be used to track or process a single item; aplurality of items (e.g., item-level tracking); a container of items,such as a case, pallet, air cargo container, or other container (e.g.,case-level tracking); items at particular locations; items passingthrough a portal; and/or items passing by a scanner, among otherpossibilities. Embodiments of the subject invention can be used forvarious applications, such as check-out, mail tracking, pharmaceuticalproduct tracking, inventory control (e.g., library inventory, storeinventory, or warehouse inventory, among others), pallet build-up orbreak-down, baggage handling, ticket/admission tracking (e.g., lifttickets, concert, sporting events), temperature tracking (e.g.,continuous polling of temperature tracking tags), among otherapplications. Various variables can define different use-case scenariosfor embodiments of the subject invention, such as the contents of theitems, boxes, and/or containers to be tracked, including theirinsulating and reflective qualities (e.g., metal and/or moisturecontent); the insulating and reflective qualities of other materials inthe proximate environment; the frequency band used; the types of RFIDtags used; the dimensions of the user; among other variables.

Various system settings or configurations can be used with a system,device, or method of the subject invention for the various applicationsand/or use-case scenarios. In an embodiment, a system, RFID reader, orother device of the subject invention can be configured for use invarious applications or use-case scenarios. For example, in anembodiment, components of the system can be positioned in differentlocations, orientations, or manners as discussed above. In anembodiment, different power output levels can be used with one or moreantennas as discussed above. In an embodiment, different types of RFIDtags can be interrogated. In an embodiment, a system, device, or methodof the subject invention supports interrogation of a plurality of RFIDtag types. In an embodiment, the plurality of RFID tag types includestags complying with UHF Class 0, Class-1 Generation-2, and Class-3standards. In an embodiment, the plurality of RFID tag types includestags complying with Class-1 Generation-2 and Class-3 standards. In anembodiment, the plurality of RFID tag types includes tags complying withUHF Class 0 and Class-1 Generation-2 standards. In an embodiment, theplurality of RFID tag types includes tags complying with UHF Class 0 andClass-3 standards. In an embodiment, the plurality of RFID tag typesincludes fully-passive tags and/or battery-assisted tags. In anembodiment, the plurality of RFID tag types includes dipole and/or dualdipole tags. In an embodiment, the plurality of RFID tag types includesmetal mount tags. In other embodiments, other classes or types of tagscan be interrogated. In an embodiment, different RF wavelengths can beused as discussed above. In an embodiment, multiple frequency bands,such as 13.56 MHz, 915 MHz, and/or 2.4 GHz, among other bands, can besupported at the same time. In an embodiment, different read triggeringschemes can be used, such as manual or automatic read triggering, asdiscussed above. In an embodiment, different information processingschemes can be used, such as processing of received RF signals by aninternal or external host, as discussed above.

These and other settings or configurations can be established or changedin different ways. In an embodiment, a user or group of users can selecta template configuration of the system or device and then customize thetemplate for their use. In an embodiment, a user can manually adjust thesettings or configuration of an RFID system on initiation of anapplication or user-case. In an embodiment, such settings can be set oradjusted automatically on the receipt of an event message, as discussedabove. In an embodiment, a user can indicate or describe a particularintended application and/or use-case to the system. In an embodiment,the RFID system recognizes a specific application and/or use-casescenario based on a movement pattern, as discussed above. In anembodiment, the system can then set or adjust settings as appropriatefor the indicated or recognized application and/or use-case. In anembodiment, no additional or specific action by the worker is requiredto initiate such adjustment. Therefore the worker is able to initiateand change tasks without any extraneous movement or time.

As discussed above, different settings and/or configurations areappropriate for different applications or use-case scenarios. Forexample, the power output level used to drive a transmitting antenna canbe adjusted depending on whether the device is used for sorting orinventory as discussed above. The power output or other settings canalso be adjusted based on how the system is worn or otherwise positionedon the user. In an embodiment, the power output or other settings areadjusted such that a particular subset of tags is within a read rangegenerated by an antenna of the system during the application. In anembodiment, different settings and/or configurations can be chosen basedon the height, movement patterns, or other characteristics of a user ofthe system. In an embodiment, the system can be augmented or upgraded tosupport different users, applications, and/or use-case scenarios. In anembodiment, the system can be upgraded remotely by downloading patches,drivers, or other upgrade modules from a server. Various wireless andwireline communication technologies, as discussed above, can be used toaccomplish the download.

Various output power levels can be used to drive transmitting antennasfor various applications and/or use case scenarios. For example, in anembodiment, a very low power level can be used for certain applicationsand/or use case scenarios, such as a power output of less than 12 dBm.Depending on the antenna, frequency band, and tags used, and othervariables and environmental factors, such a power level can produce aread range of less than 5 centimeters. Such a read range may be usefulfor item-level tracking, check-out applications, a deck-top scanner, andother precise handling applications. Such a read range may be usefulwhen only one item should be identified at a time (e.g., killing a tag).

In an embodiment, a low power level can be used for certain applicationsand/or use case scenarios, such as a power output of 12-18 dBm.Depending on the antenna, frequency band, and tags used, and othervariables and environmental factors, such a power level can produce aread range of 5-50 centimeters. Such a read range may be useful foritem-level tracking, where expected metal and moisture content ishigher, or inventory tracking. Such a read range may be useful when acarried item is to be identified, depending on item size and metal andmoisture content.

In an embodiment, a mid-range power level can be used for certainapplications and/or use case scenarios, such as a power output of 19-22dBm. Depending on the antenna, frequency band, and tags used, and othervariables and environmental factors, such a power level can produce aread range of 50-100 centimeters. Such a read range may be useful forpackage handling, small container tracking, or pallet build-up orbreakdown, depending on metal and moisture content.

In an embodiment, a high power level can be used for certainapplications and/or use case scenarios, such as a power output of 23-27dBm. Depending on the antenna, frequency band, and tags used, and othervariables and environmental factors, such a power level can produce aread range of 1-2 meters. Such a read range may be useful for baggagehandling, mid-size container tracking, or portal tracking, depending onmetal and moisture content.

In an embodiment, a very high power level can be used for certainapplications and/or use case scenarios, such as a power output greaterthan 27 dBm. Depending on the antenna, frequency band, and tags used,and other variables and environmental factors, such a power level canproduce a read range of 3-4 meters. Such a read range may be useful forlarge container tracking or temperature tracking, depending on metal andmoisture content.

The variables, factors, power levels, applications, and use-casescenarios described above are illustrative examples. Other variables,factors, power levels, applications, and use-case scenarios can be usedwith the subject invention.

In an embodiment of the subject invention, a device is provided, whereinthe device is configured to drive a transmitting antenna at a pluralityof output power levels. In an embodiment, the plurality of output powerlevels comprises three or more power levels. In an embodiment, each ofthe plurality of output power levels is defined by a power level (e.g.,22 dBm). In an embodiment, each of the plurality of output power levelsis defined by a range of power levels (e.g., 10-12 dBm). In anembodiment, each range is distinct. In an embodiment, ranges within theplurality can overlap.

In an embodiment, a user can select an output power level to be used todrive the transmitting antenna from among the plurality of output powerlevels. In an embodiment, the user selects a specific power level. In anembodiment, the user selects a specific range of power levels. In anembodiment, the user selects or describes an application and/or use casescenario for the device and the device automatically selects a powerlevel based on the scenario selected or described by the user.

In an embodiment, the device automatically selects or adjusts a powerlevel or other setting based on input from at least one sensor, such asa user interface, moisture sensor, movement pattern recognition module(gyroscope; accelerometer); and/or receiving antenna. For example, in anembodiment, the device automatically adjusts an output power level usedto drive the transmitting antenna based on a number of RFID tags read bya receiving antenna. In an embodiment, the transmitting antenna is alsothe receiving antenna. For example, in an embodiment, the deviceautomatically increases the output power level until at least one tag isread by the receiving antenna. In an embodiment, the deviceautomatically increases the output power level until at least two tagsare read by the receiving antenna. In an embodiment, the deviceautomatically decreases the output power level until only one tag isread by the receiving antenna. In an embodiment, the deviceautomatically decreases the output power level until only two tags areread by the receiving antenna. In an embodiment, the deviceautomatically increases the output power level when at least one tag isread by the receiving antenna. In an embodiment, the deviceautomatically increases the output power level when at least two tagsare read by the receiving antenna.

In another embodiment, the device automatically adjusts the output powerlevel used to drive the transmitting antenna based on a number of timesthe receiving antenna reads the same RFID tag within a specifiedtime-period. For example, in an embodiment, the device automaticallydecreases the output power level when the same RFID tag is read morethan five times per second. In an embodiment, the threshold is 10 timesper second. In an embodiment, the threshold is 50 times per second. Inan embodiment, the threshold is 1 times per quarter second. Thethresholds and time-periods stated here are illustrative examples.Various other read thresholds and time-periods can be used. In anembodiment, the output power level used continues to adjust during thecourse of the application, either automatically and/or in response touser input. Thus, different power levels can be used during differentphases of the application. In an embodiment, power usage and/or batterylife are conserved by adjusting the power level.

In an embodiment of the subject invention, a method of interrogating anRFID tag is provided, including: driving an interrogating RF antenna ata first power output level to produce a first interrogating RF signal;driving the interrogating RF antenna at a second power output level toproduce a second interrogating RF signal, wherein upon incidence of thesecond interrogating RF signal on an RFID tag, the RFID tag produces aresponse RF signal encoded with information stored on the RFID tag; andreceiving the response RF signal via a receiving RF antenna. In anembodiment, the first power output level adjusts to the second poweroutput level upon sensor input, event recognition, and/or userinteraction, as described above.

In an embodiment of the subject invention, a plurality of antennas isused with an RFID system. In an embodiment, an array of antennas isused. A device such as a multiplexer can be used to select one or moreantennas of the plurality depending on the application and/or use-case.In an embodiment, a first antenna of the plurality is a transmittingantenna, and a second antenna of the plurality is a receiving antenna.In an embodiment, the first antenna can also operate as a receivingantenna. In an embodiment, the second antenna can also operate as atransmitting antenna. In an embodiment both antennas are mono-staticused for both transmitting and receiving. In an embodiment, the secondantenna is removeably connected to the RFID system such that the systemcan be used with or without the second antenna. In an embodiment, thesecond antenna is a handheld antenna. In an embodiment, the secondantenna is a directional antenna. In an embodiment, the directionalantenna can be oriented by the user to interrogate and/or receivesignals from at least one specific RFID tag.

In an embodiment, the first and second antennas are each positioned orotherwise configured to interrogate and/or receive RF signals fromdifferent RFID tags. Thus, the first antenna is configured tointerrogate and/or receive RF signals from a first type of RFID tags,and the second antenna is configured to interrogate and/or receive RFsignals from a second type of RFID tags. For example, in an embodiment,the first antenna can be configured to interrogate and/or receive RFsignals from object RFID tags attached to objects handled by the user,while the second antenna can be configured to interrogate and/or receiveRF signals from location RFID tags positioned at locations passed by theuser, or vice versa. In another embodiment, the second antenna can beconfigured to interrogate and/or receive RF signals from container RFIDtags positioned on containers used to hold such objects.

In an embodiment, a single antenna is used to receive RF signals fromdifferent RFID tags. In an embodiment, the single antenna is driven indifferent ways to receive RF signals from different RFID tags. Forexample, the orientation of the antenna can be changed, the power outputlevel used to drive the antenna can be changed, or the wavelength usedcan be changed, among other changes. In an embodiment, the read field ofthe single antenna is different for different types of RFID tags. Forexample, the read field can be larger for battery-assisted RFID tagsthan for fully-passive RFID tags.

In a particular embodiment, an RFID system can be used as a door portalscanner, but instead of setting up an RFID reader at every doorway,location RFID tags can be placed on the doorways and an antenna can beoriented to interrogate and receive a location RF signal from the RFIDtags. Hence, as the user passes through the doorway, the system willscan the door tag. In an embodiment, the system can also scan an objectRFID tag attached to a tagged object held by the user. The objectcarried by the user can then be associated with the location of thedoorway by the RFID system using a read association module, as discussedabove. In an embodiment, a plurality of antennas can be used with theRFID system. In an embodiment, a first antenna of the plurality can beconfigured to interrogate RF signals from the door tags, and a secondantenna of the plurality can be configured to interrogate RF signalsfrom the handled objects. In a particular embodiment, the first antennais positioned on the outside of the user's arm, and the second antennais positioned on the inside of the user's arm. In other embodiments, thelocation tags can be positioned at other locations, such as a ceiling,palette, or other location. In an embodiment, the object tags can bepositioned on the objects in various ways as known in the art. The firstand second antennas can be configured in various ways to facilitateinterrogating or reading these tags. In an embodiment, as discussedabove, a single antenna is used but it is oriented or driven to receivethe RF signals from the different RFID tags.

In another embodiment, an RFID system can be used to associate objectswith containers, but instead of setting up an RFID reader at everycontainer, container RFID tags can be placed on the containers and anantenna can be oriented to interrogate and receive a container RF signalfrom the RFID tags. Hence, as the user moves an object in to, out of, ornear a container, the system will scan the container tag. In anembodiment, the system can also scan an object RFID tag attached to theobject held by the user. The object carried by the user can then beassociated with the container by the RFID system using a readassociation module, as discussed above. In an embodiment, a plurality ofantennas can be used with the RFID system. In an embodiment, a firstantenna of the plurality can be configured to interrogate RF signalsfrom the container tags, and a second antenna of the plurality can beconfigured to interrogate RF signals from the handled objects. Dependingon the application, use-case, container configuration, and othervariables, various system settings and configurations can be set oradjusted, as discussed above. In a particular embodiment, the firstantenna is positioned on the outside of the user's arm, and the secondantenna is positioned on the inside of the user's arm. In an embodiment,at least one container tag is positioned on at least on surface of thecontainer. In an embodiment, a plurality of container tags is positionedon the container. In an embodiment, tags are positioned on a pluralityof surfaces of the container. In an embodiment, tags are positioned oninterior surfaces of the container such that tags are only read when aRFID reader or antenna of the system is located inside the container.Thus, tags can be read when the user places an item inside the containeror removes an item from the container. In an embodiment, the object tagscan be positioned on the objects in various ways as known in the art.The first and second antennas can be configured in various ways tofacilitate interrogating or reading these tags. In an embodiment, asdiscussed above, a single antenna is used but it is oriented or drivento receive the RF signals from the different RFID tags.

FIGS. 16a and 16b show a wearable RFID system configured for voicecommand and power level adjustment in accordance with an embodiment ofthe subject invention. The embodiment shown includes a power outputbutton 1601, which allows a user to select a particular power outputlevel to be used with the RFID system. As discussed above, various poweroutput levels are appropriate for various applications of the wearableRFID system. In an embodiment, the user directly selects the power levelvia the button 1601. In an embodiment, the user indicates the intendedapplication via the output button 1601 and the system selects anappropriate power level as discussed above. In an embodiment, adifferent type of control or sensor is used as discussed above.

The embodiment shown also includes an external antenna port 1605. Asdiscussed above, an antenna can be communicably connected to the systemvia such a port. In an embodiment, a first antenna is connected into ahousing of the system and a second antenna can be connected via the port1605. Thus, the second antenna can be used when not in use. In anembodiment, the second antenna is communicably attached via the port1605 for various applications or use-case scenarios. In an embodiment,the system recognizes the attachment and sets or adjusts the systemconfiguration based on the attachment.

The embodiment shown also includes a read indicator 1602. As discussedabove the read indicator can take various forms. Here, a series oflights is used. The embodiment shown also includes a battery powerindicator 1603, which indicates the level of battery power available foruse by the system. Various methods of indicating battery power level areknown in the art and can be used with the subject invention. Here, alight is used that changes color or flashes when the level is gettinglow. A microphone for voice commands and a speaker for voice alerts1604. As discussed above, voice commands and alerts can be used toprovide various inputs and outputs to the RFID system. The embodimentshown also includes buckles 1606. Such buckles or other attachment meanscan be used to attach a system component to the system or the system toa harness, as discussed above. The embodiment shown here is merely anillustrative example. Other embodiments can include other features asdiscussed above.

Many different arrangements of the various components depicted, as wellas components not shown, are possible without departing from the spiritand scope of the present invention. Embodiments of the present inventionhave been described with the intent to be illustrative rather thanrestrictive. A skilled artisan may develop alternative means ofimplementing the aforementioned improvements without departing from thescope of the present invention. It will be understood that certainfeatures and subcombinations are of utility and may be employed withoutreference to other features and subcombinations and are contemplatedwithin the scope of the claims. Not all steps listed in the variousfigures need be carried out in the specific order described.

EMBODIMENTS Embodiment 1

A radio frequency identification (RFID) system, comprising:

-   -   an RFID reader;    -   a transmitting antenna capable of transmitting an interrogating        radio frequency (RF) signal when driven by the RFID reader;    -   a sensor, wherein the sensor senses a change in a physical        environment and generates sensor information;    -   an event recognition module, wherein the event recognition        module processes the sensor information to recognize a        triggering event, wherein when the event recognition module        recognizes the triggering event, a trigger event message is        transmitted to the RFID reader, wherein upon receipt of the        trigger event message the RFID reader drives the transmitting        antenna to transmit the interrogating RF signal, wherein upon        incidence of the interrogating RF signal on an RFID tag, a        response RF signal is produced; and    -   a receiving antenna, wherein the receiving antenna receives the        response RF signal, wherein the RFID reader receives the        response RF signal from the receiving antenna.

Embodiment 2

The system of Embodiment 1, wherein the transmitting antenna is thereceiving antenna.

Embodiment 3

The system of Embodiment 1, wherein the event recognition moduletransmits the trigger event message to the RFID reader via a wireless ora wired interface.

Embodiment 4

The system of Embodiment 1, wherein the event recognition moduletransmits the trigger event message to the RFID reader via a backplane.

Embodiment 5

The system of Embodiment 1, wherein the event recognition module alsoprocesses the sensor information to recognize an application event,wherein when the event recognition module recognizes the applicationevent, an application event message is transmitted to the RFID reader,wherein upon receipt of the application event message the RFID readercauses an adjustment of at least one system setting.

Embodiment 6

The system of Embodiment 5, wherein the at least one system settingcomprises a power output level used to drive the transmitting antenna.

Embodiment 7

The system of Embodiment 5, wherein the at least one system settingcomprises a band used to transmit the interrogating RF signal.

Embodiment 8

The system of Embodiment 1, wherein the sensor comprises a user inputinterface and the triggering event comprises receiving certain input viathe user input interface.

Embodiment 9

The system of Embodiment 8, wherein the certain input comprisesactuation of a control on the user input interface.

Embodiment 10

The system of Embodiment 8, wherein the certain input comprises a voicecommand.

Embodiment 11

The system of Embodiment 1, wherein the change in the physicalenvironment is selected from a group consisting of: a change intemperature; a change in humidity; a change in lighting; a change inacidity; a change in proximity of an object to a part of the system; amovement of an object; and a movement of a user.

Embodiment 12

The system of Embodiment 11, wherein the sensor is removeably attachedto a user and the triggering event comprises a movement of the sensor.

Embodiment 13

The system of Embodiment 12, wherein the sensor comprises anaccelerometer and the triggering event comprises an acceleration of thesensor.

Embodiment 14

The system of Embodiment 12, wherein the sensor comprises a gyroscopeand the triggering event comprises a change in orientation of thesensor.

Embodiment 15

The system of Embodiment 12, wherein the event recognition modulecomprises a movement pattern recognition module that processes thesensor information to recognize a movement pattern of the userindicative of the user moving an object, wherein when the movementpattern recognition module recognizes the movement pattern of the userindicative of the user moving the object, the trigger event message istransmitted to the RFID reader.

Embodiment 16

The system of Embodiment 15, wherein the movement pattern is determinedduring a training period wherein the movement pattern is indicated by ahuman being, and the movement pattern is recognized by comparing themovement of the sensor to the movement pattern.

Embodiment 17

The system of Embodiment 15, wherein the movement pattern is indicatedby the user during the training period.

Embodiment 18

The system of Embodiment 15, wherein the movement pattern recognitionmodule processes the sensor information to recognize a movement patternof the user indicative of picking up, carrying, and/or putting down theobject, wherein when the movement pattern recognition module recognizesthe movement pattern of the user indicative of picking up, carrying,and/or putting down the object, the trigger event message is transmittedto the RFID reader.

Embodiment 19

The system of Embodiment 15, wherein the RFID tag is attached to theobject and the receiving antenna is removeably attached to the userduring receipt of the response RF signal.

Embodiment 20

The system of Embodiment 19, wherein the RFID reader is removeablyattached to the user during receipt of the response RF signal.

Embodiment 21

The system of Embodiment 19, further comprising a holder adapted to beremoveably attached to the user and hold the receiving antenna duringreceipt the response signal.

Embodiment 22

The system of Embodiment 21, wherein the holder is also adapted to holdthe RFID reader during receipt of the response RF signal.

Embodiment 23

The system of Embodiment 22, wherein the receiving antenna and the RFIDreader are removeably attached to the holder.

Embodiment 24

The system of Embodiment 21, wherein the receiving antenna is flexibleto conform to a shape of the user where the holder is attached.

Embodiment 25

The system of Embodiment 21, wherein the holder is also adapted to holdthe transmitting antenna during transmission of the interrogating RFsignal.

Embodiment 26

The system of Embodiment 25, wherein the holder comprises an RFshielding material positioned to reduce the amount of radiation to whichthe user is exposed during transmission of the interrogating RF signaland/or receipt of the RF signal.

Embodiment 27

The system of Embodiment 26, wherein the holder further comprises aninsulating material positioned between the RF shielding material and thetransmitting antenna when the transmitting antenna is attached to theholder.

Embodiment 28

The system of Embodiment 21, wherein the holder comprises a sleeveadapted to be removeably attached to an arm of the user and thereceiving antenna is attached to the sleeve such that, when the sleeveis removeably attached to the arm, the receiving antenna is positionedalong the inside of the atm.

Embodiment 29

The system of Embodiment 15, wherein the response RF signal is encodedwith signal information and a processing unit receives the response RFsignal and decodes the response RF signal to obtain the signalinformation.

Embodiment 30

The system of Embodiment 29, wherein the signal information is stored onthe RFID tag.

Embodiment 31

The system of Embodiment 29, wherein the system further comprises a hostsystem comprising a memory, and the host system identifies the object inthe memory based on the signal information obtained from the response RFsignal and loads more information about the object from the memory.

Embodiment 32

The system of Embodiment 31, wherein the host system further comprisesan output interface, wherein the output interface is configured topresent at least some of the more information about the object.

Embodiment 33

The system of Embodiment 31, wherein the RFID reader comprises theprocessing unit and the RFID reader transmits the signal information tothe host system via a wireless interface, a wired interface, or abackplane.

Embodiment 34

The system of Embodiment 31, wherein the host system comprises theprocessing unit and the RFID reader transmits the response RF signal tothe host system via a wireless interface, a wired interface, or abackplane.

Embodiment 35

The system of Embodiment 31, wherein the movement pattern recognitionmodule also processes the sensor information to recognize a movementpattern of the user indicative of use of the system for a particularapplication, wherein when the movement pattern recognition modulerecognizes the movement pattern of the user indicative of use of thesystem for the particular application, an application event message istransmitted to the host system, wherein upon receipt of the applicationevent message the host system causes an adjustment of at least onesystem setting.

Embodiment 36

The system of Embodiment 35, wherein the at least one system settingcomprises a power output level used to drive the transmitting antenna.

Embodiment 37

The system of Embodiment 35, further comprising an additional antenna,wherein the additional antenna transmits an additional interrogating RFsignal, wherein upon incidence of the additional interrogating RF signalon an additional RFID tag, an additional response RF signal is producedencoded with additional signal information, the additional antennareceives the additional response RF signal and transmits the additionalresponse RF signal to the RFID reader, the processing unit receives theadditional response RF signal and decodes the additional response RFsignal to obtain the additional signal information.

Embodiment 38

The system of Embodiment 37, wherein the additional antenna isremoveably attached to the user during transmission of the additionalinterrogating RF signal and receipt of the additional response RFsignal.

Embodiment 39

The system of Embodiment 38, wherein the host system further comprises aread association module, wherein when the read association modulerecognizes that the response RF signal and the additional response RFsignal are associated.

Embodiment 40

The system of Embodiment 31, further comprising:

-   -   an additional RFID reader;    -   an additional antenna, wherein the additional antenna transmits        an additional interrogating RF signal, wherein upon incidence of        the additional interrogating RF signal on an additional RFID        tag, an additional response RF signal is produced encoded with        additional signal information, the additional antenna receives        the additional response RF signal and transmits the additional        response RF signal to the additional RFID reader, the processing        unit receives the additional response RF signal and decodes the        additional response RF signal to obtain the additional signal        information; and    -   a read association module, wherein when the read association        module recognizes that the response RF signal and the additional        response RF signal were received by the RFID reader and the        additional RFID reader, respectively, within a certain time        period of each other, the read association module associates the        signal information with the additional signal information in the        memory.

Embodiment 41

The system of Embodiment 1, wherein the transmitting antenna and theRFID reader are configured to transmit RF signals in a plurality ofbands, wherein the plurality of bands comprises at least two of thebands selected from the group consisting of: Ultra High Frequency (UHF);High Frequency (HF); Low Frequency (LF); and Microwave.

Embodiment 42

The system of Embodiment 41, wherein the receiving antenna and the RFIDreader are configured to receive RF signals in the plurality of bands.

Embodiment 43

The system of Embodiment 42, wherein the receiving antenna and the RFIDreader are configured to receive RF signals from a plurality of RFID tagtypes, wherein the plurality of RFID tag types comprises tags complyingwith at least two of the standards selected from the group consistingof: UHF Class 0; UHF Class-1 Generation-2; and UHF Class 3.

Embodiment 44

A method of identifying an object when the object is moved by a user,comprising:

-   -   providing a host system comprising a processing unit and a        memory;    -   driving a transmitting antenna to transmit an interrogating RF        signal, wherein upon incidence of the interrogating RF signal on        an RFID tag attached to an object, a response RF signal is        produced, wherein the response RF signal is encoded with signal        information;    -   positioning an RFID system on a user, wherein the RFID system        comprises:        -   a receiving antenna that receives the response RF signal;            and        -   an RFID reader that receives the response RF signal from the            receiving antenna and transmits the response RF signal to            the host system; and    -   having the user move the object,    -   wherein the transmitting antenna is driven to transmit the        interrogating RF signal automatically, and independent of any        additional intentional movement by the user, when the user moves        the object,    -   wherein the host system receives the response RF signal, the        processing unit decodes the response RF signal to obtain the        signal information, and the host system identifies the object in        the memory based on the signal information obtained from the        response RF signal.

Embodiment 45

The method of Embodiment 44, wherein the transmitting antenna is thereceiving antenna.

Embodiment 46

The method of Embodiment 45, wherein the RFID reader drives thetransmitting antenna to transmit the interrogating RF signal.

Embodiment 47

The method of Embodiment 46, further comprising:

-   -   providing a sensor that senses a change in a physical        environment and generates sensor information;    -   providing an event recognition module, wherein the event        recognition module processes the sensor information to recognize        a triggering event, wherein when the event recognition module        recognizes the triggering event, a trigger event message is        transmitted to the RFID reader, wherein upon receipt of the        trigger event message the RFID reader drives the transmitting        antenna to transmit the interrogating RF signal.

Embodiment 48

The method of Embodiment 47, further comprising positioning an RFshielding material on the user between the transmitting antenna and theuser.

Embodiment 49

One or more computer-readable media having computer-useable instructionsembodied thereon for performing a method of interrogating an RFID tag,the method comprising:

-   -   determining that a triggering event has occurred;    -   driving a transmitting antenna to transmit an interrogating RF        signal, wherein upon incidence of the interrogating RF signal on        an RFID tag, a response RF signal is produced; and    -   receiving via a receiving antenna the response RF signal.

Embodiment 50

The media of Embodiment 49, wherein the triggering event comprisesmovement of an object and the movement of the object is sensed using oneor more sensors.

Embodiment 51

The media of Embodiment 50, wherein:

-   -   the RFID tag is attached to the object;    -   wherein the response RF signal is encoded with signal        information; and    -   the method further comprises transmitting the signal information        to a host system to obtain information about the object.

Embodiment 52

The media of Embodiment 51, wherein the triggering event comprisesrecognition of a movement pattern indicative of a user moving theobject.

Embodiment 53

The media of Embodiment 52, wherein the indicative movement pattern isdetermined during a training period wherein the movement pattern isindicated by a human being, and the movement pattern is recognized bycomparing the movement of the object to the movement pattern.

Embodiment 54

The media of Embodiment 53, wherein the movement pattern is indicated bythe user during the training period.

Embodiment 55

The media of Embodiment 51, wherein sensing that the object has beenmoved further comprises selecting the RFID tag attached to the objectfrom a plurality of RFID tags within a read range of the receivingantenna.

Embodiment 56

The media of Embodiment 55, wherein the RFID tag is selected based onthe RFID tag's proximity to the transmitting antenna and/or thereceiving antenna.

Embodiment 57

The method of Embodiment 55, wherein the RFID tag is selected based onthe RFID tag's orientation in relation to the transmitting antennaand/or the receiving antenna.

Embodiment 58

A method of interrogating one or more RFID tags, comprising:

-   -   driving a transmitting antenna at a first power level to        transmit a first interrogating RF signal, wherein upon incidence        of the first interrogating RF signal on zero or more of a set of        RFID tags, a corresponding zero or more first response RF        signals are produced;    -   receiving at least zero of the zero or more first response RF        signals via a receiving RF antenna within a certain time period;    -   choosing a second power level to be used to drive the        transmitting antenna based on the at least zero of the zero or        more first response RF signals received within the certain time        period;    -   driving the transmitting antenna at the second power level to        transmit a second interrogating RF signal, wherein upon        incidence of the second interrogating RF signal on one or more        of the set of RFID tags, a corresponding one or more second        response RF signals are produced; and    -   receiving at least one of the one or more second response RF        signals via the receiving RF antenna.

Embodiment 59

The method of Embodiment 58, wherein the second power level is chosen tobe higher than the first power level because a count of the at leastzero of the zero or more first response RF signals received within thecertain time period is too low.

Embodiment 60

The method of Embodiment 58, wherein the second power level is chosen tobe lower than the first power level because a count of the at least zeroof the zero or more first response RF signals received within thecertain time period is too high.

Embodiment 61

A method of interrogating a plurality of RFID tags, comprising:

-   -   transmitting a first interrogating RF signal, wherein upon        incidence of the first interrogating RF signal on a first RFID        tag, a first response RF signal is produced;    -   receiving the first response RF signal, wherein the first        response RF signal is encoded with first signal information;    -   transmitting a second interrogating RF signal, wherein upon        incidence of the second interrogating RF signal on a second RFID        tag, a second response RF signal is produced;    -   receiving the second response RF signal, wherein the second        response RF signal is encoded with second signal information;    -   determining that the first response RF signal and the second        response RF signal were received within a certain time period of        each other;    -   associating the first signal information with the second signal        information.

Alternative embodiments and implementations of the present inventionwill become apparent to those skilled in the art to which it pertainsupon review of the specification, including the drawing figures.Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is defined by theappended claims rather than the foregoing description.

1. A radio frequency identification (RFID) system, comprising: an RFIDreader; a transmitting antenna capable of transmitting an interrogatingradio frequency (RF) signal when driven by the RFID reader; a sensor,wherein the sensor senses a change in a physical environment andgenerates sensor information; an event recognition module, wherein theevent recognition module processes the sensor information to recognize atriggering event, wherein when the event recognition module recognizesthe triggering event, a trigger event message is transmitted to the RFIDreader, wherein upon receipt of the trigger event message the RFIDreader drives the transmitting antenna to transmit the interrogating RFsignal, wherein upon incidence of the interrogating RF signal on an RFIDtag, a response RF signal is produced; and a receiving antenna, whereinthe receiving antenna receives the response RF signal, wherein the RFIDreader receives the response RF signal from the receiving antenna. 2.The system of claim 1, wherein the transmitting antenna is the receivingantenna.
 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the event recognition moduletransmits the trigger event message to the RFID reader via a wireless ora wired interface.
 4. The system of claim 1, wherein the eventrecognition module transmits the trigger event message to the RFIDreader via a backplane.
 5. The system of claim 1, wherein the eventrecognition module also processes the sensor information to recognize anapplication event, wherein when the event recognition module recognizesthe application event, an application event message is transmitted tothe RFID reader, wherein upon receipt of the application event messagethe RFID reader causes an adjustment of at least one system setting. 6.The system of claim 5, wherein the at least one system setting comprisesa power output level used to drive the transmitting antenna.
 7. Thesystem of claim 5, wherein the at least one system setting comprises aband used to transmit the interrogating RF signal.
 8. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the sensor comprises a user input interface and thetriggering event comprises receiving certain input via the user inputinterface.
 9. The system of claim 8, wherein the certain input comprisesactuation of a control on the user input interface.
 10. The system ofclaim 8, wherein the certain input comprises a voice command.
 11. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein the change in the physical environment isselected from a group consisting of: a change in temperature; a changein humidity; a change in lighting; a change in acidity; a change inproximity of an object to a part of the system; a movement of an object;and a movement of a user.
 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the sensoris removeably attached to a user and the triggering event comprises amovement of the sensor.
 13. The system of claim 12, wherein the sensorcomprises an accelerometer and the triggering event comprises anacceleration of the sensor.
 14. The system of claim 12, wherein thesensor comprises a gyroscope and the triggering event comprises a changein orientation of the sensor.
 15. The system of claim 12, wherein theevent recognition module comprises a movement pattern recognition modulethat processes the sensor information to recognize a movement pattern ofthe user indicative of the user moving an object, wherein when themovement pattern recognition module recognizes the movement pattern ofthe user indicative of the user moving the object, the trigger eventmessage is transmitted to the RFID reader.
 16. The system of claim 15,wherein the movement pattern is determined during a training periodwherein the movement pattern is indicated by a human being, and themovement pattern is recognized by comparing the movement of the sensorto the movement pattern.
 17. A method of identifying an object when theobject is moved by a user, comprising: providing a host systemcomprising a processing unit and a memory; driving a transmittingantenna to transmit an interrogating RF signal, wherein upon incidenceof the interrogating RF signal on an RFID tag attached to an object, aresponse RF signal is produced, wherein the response RF signal isencoded with signal information; positioning an RFID system on a user,wherein the RFID system comprises: a receiving antenna that receives theresponse RF signal; and an RFID reader that receives the response RFsignal from the receiving antenna and transmits the response RF signalto the host system; and having the user move the object, wherein thetransmitting antenna is driven to transmit the interrogating RF signalautomatically, and independent of any additional intentional movement bythe user, when the user moves the object, wherein the host systemreceives the response RF signal, the processing unit decodes theresponse RF signal to obtain the signal information, and the host systemidentifies the object in the memory based on the signal informationobtained from the response RF signal.
 18. A method of interrogating oneor more RFID tags, comprising: driving a transmitting antenna at a firstpower level to transmit a first interrogating RF signal, wherein uponincidence of the first interrogating RF signal on zero or more of a setof RFID tags, a corresponding zero or more first response RF signals areproduced; receiving at least zero of the zero or more first response RFsignals via a receiving RF antenna within a certain time period;choosing a second power level to be used to drive the transmittingantenna based on the at least zero of the zero or more first response RFsignals received within the certain time period; driving thetransmitting antenna at the second power level to transmit a secondinterrogating RF signal, wherein upon incidence of the secondinterrogating RF signal on one or more of the set of RFID tags, acorresponding one or more second response RF signals are produced; andreceiving at least one of the one or more second response RF signals viathe receiving RF antenna.